Overview

• Tengku Muhammad Taufik issued a formal Oct. 7 apology, saying his exuberance was misplaced and that he did not consume alcohol.
• He joined the Marina Bay podium as Mercedes’ representative after George Russell’s win and took part in the traditional champagne spray.
• Images of the celebration drew anger in Malaysia, with criticism from the public and political groups including PAS and Bersatu’s youth wing.
• Formula 1 uses non-alcoholic substitutes at some Middle Eastern races where alcohol is restricted, but the Singapore event used champagne.
• There has been no public indication of disciplinary action or changes to the Petronas–Mercedes partnership as of the latest reports.