Max Verstappen cancels media interviews in Saudi Arabia after health scare

The double world champion, who cruised to victory at the opening race of the season in Bahrain, is expected to be in his Red Bull car for practice on Friday in Jeddah

Max Verstappen has cancelled his media commitments at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix because of a stomach illness.

The double world champion, who dominated Formula One’s season-opening race in Bahrain a fortnight ago, said he has been battling with the bug this week.

However, he expects to be in his Red Bull for practice in Jeddah on Friday.

Max Verstappen will not be in Saudi Arabia until Friday (PA Wire)

“Feeling fine again, after not being fit for a few days because of a stomach bug,” wrote the Dutchman, 25, on Twitter.

“Therefore, I unfortunately had to postpone my flight for a day, so I won’t be on the track until Friday.”

Verstappen’s Red Bull team tweeted: “Max has been suffering from a stomach illness over the past few days and, with the agreement of the FIA, will not be present at track today. Feel better, Max.”

Verstappen heads into the second round of the season leading the championship following his comprehensive victory in Bahrain.

Verstappen, who is this year bidding for a hat-trick of titles, led home a Red Bull one-two finish at the first race, with team-mate Sergio Perez second and Fernando Alonso third for Aston Martin.