Formula One outfit Aston Martin has refused to provide interviews to broadcaster Sky Germany at the Hungarian Grand Prix, implementing a media boycott following what the team considers to be unfair criticism.
The Silverstone-based squad, which is owned by Canadian businessman Lawrence Stroll, turned down all interview requests from Sky Germany's reporters at the Hungaroring.
Former racing driver Ralf Schumacher and colleague Peter Hardenacke were unable to secure any conversations with team representatives during their paddock visit.
Schumacher acknowledged the situation, stating: "I know they're not giving us any more interviews because they don't like us that much at the moment."
The refusal came due to comments made by Ralf Schumacher
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The dispute appears to have originated from remarks made by Schumacher during the British Grand Prix, where he suggested Lance Stroll should offer an apology to his engineering team following an expletive-laden radio message.
The Canadian driver had expressed his frustration at Silverstone, declaring: "This is the worst piece of s**t I've ever driven."
Despite securing seventh place and six championship points in that race, Stroll's outburst drew criticism from the Sky Germany commentator.
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Ralf Schumacher criticised Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll on his comments, demanding he apologised to his team
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The team's frustrations extend beyond the Silverstone incident, according to German publication BILD.
Aston Martin reportedly believes Sky Germany demonstrates minimal interest in covering the team during routine media activities, including press conferences.
The boycott appears to be a strategic response as the team experiences improved performance.
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With both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll achieving stronger results in recent races, Aston Martin seems to be making a statement about their expectations for media coverage.
Hardenacke acknowledged the tension, admitting: "We were a bit too critical of the people at Aston Martin."
The broadcaster remains permitted to attend official race events despite the current impasse.
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Sky Sports are permitted to attend official race events but teams withold the right to refuse interviews
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This situation mirrors a similar dispute from 2022 when Red Bull temporarily suspended cooperation with Sky Sports across multiple territories.
Team principal Christian Horner and driver Max Verstappen declined interviews during the Mexican Grand Prix, citing concerns about negative coverage.
Horner explained at the time: "We were obviously disappointed with a series of derogatory comments that have been made on Sky."
He emphasised the action covered "all of the Sky channels, Germany, Italy" and aimed to "register our discontent in sometimes some of the less impartial comments that are made."
The future of Aston Martin's relationship with Sky Germany following the summer break remains uncertain.