Drivers furious in interviews: Italian journalist reveals how she handles their anger
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Currently, in the open-wheel category, the media play an important role in conveying the feelings of the main figures on the track to the public. For this reason, after every session during a race weekend, drivers must go to the interview ring to speak with journalists, who act as the voice of F1 fans worldwide.
It's not always easy to get statements from these F1 personalities. What makes it even more difficult is the outcome of the session that has just ended. Drivers don't always finish a session completely satisfied. In fact, they often approach journalists filled with frustration, which then comes through in their interviews.
Mara Sangiorgio discussed this aspect of F1 in an interview with Fanpage Sport, citing Lando Norris as an example. The Briton did not have an easy 2024, and giving interviews was certainly not his favorite part of the weekend. There were times when Lando responded to journalists with some irritation.
How to handle drivers in interviews?
Mara Sangiorgio shared what she has learned over the years interviewing dozens of people every race weekend. "I'm there to do my job, so over time, I've also learned to manage my emotions and emotional states. And one of the 'tricks' of my job is trying to interpret and understand these guys, especially because they come to me for interviews at the peak of their adrenaline."
The Italian journalist emphasized how interviews take place very shortly after the drivers get out of the car. "So part of my job is also to understand them, find the right way and the right approach to ask questions, without throwing mistakes or shortcomings in their face. So, in my opinion, Lando needed to be understood a bit last year as well." – she pointed out.
Mara Sangiorgio went on to explain why, even when faced with occasionally impolite responses, she remains composed and does not lose her cool. "It's not part of my job to respond sharply to the drivers, but it is part of my job to find the right approach, ask the right question, and try to get the best possible answer." – the Italian journalist concluded.
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