Martin Brundle has issued his “sincere apologies” to Lewis Capaldi following a comical double blunder during his Singapore Grand Prix grid walk. The Sky Sports legend is renowned for his pre-race segment where he approaches a blend of Formula 1 figures and celebrities, equipped with nothing but a microphone and his razor-sharp humour.
As always happens with live television, matters don’t invariably proceed smoothly and recent times are peppered with numerous unforgettable instances of Brundle mishaps, plus some occasions where he’s been completely blanked. And supporters will be discussing his encounter with the musician Capaldi on Sunday for years ahead.
Following a short chat with Superman star David Corensweat, Brundle walked up to another gentleman and declared “Lewis, wonderful to see you,” obviously under the impression he was addressing Lewis Capaldi. However, he was swiftly put right by the entertained chap who responded: “I’m his brother!”.
At that instant, the actual vocalist emerged from behind his sibling’s shoulder, already chuckling about the incident. And he was in fits of laughter by the conclusion of the quick interview when he extended a hand to Brundle, only for the Sky commentator to walk away.
Social media was buzzing with responses and Brundle was even ribbed by his broadcasting partner, commentator David Croft, at the race’s finish. Brundle suggested he had been informed through his earpiece that Capaldi had been wearing the McLaren cap that was, actually, being worn by his brother.
Nevertheless, he has now said sorry to the Scottish singer on social media. Quoting a post by Capaldi, who shared a clip of the moment he shook his own hand after being snubbed by the Sky Sports favourite, Brundle wrote: “Sincere apologies, Lewis. I turned around to the camera with an urgent three-second count going on in my ears to wind up for the national anthem. Had no idea you were trying to shake my hand. A cardinal sin on my part which I hope to put right one day. Hope you enjoyed F1.”
The race itself was claimed by George Russell, who started from pole position and possessed the speed in his Mercedes to transform that into his second triumph of the season. It marked a maiden victory for the Silver Arrows in Singapore since 2018 as both squad and driver savoured success at what had previously been somewhat of a troublesome circuit for them.
There was also joy for McLaren who accumulated sufficient points to clinch the constructors’ championship with six rounds remaining, matching the record established by Red Bull in 2023. However, that accomplishment was somewhat overshadowed by Oscar Piastri’s furious response to the team’s choice not to instruct team-mate and title contender Lando Norris to step aside after the Briton had collided with him whilst overtaking during the opening lap.