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Comedian Jack Whitehall has revealed that Formula 1 banned him from making a joke about George Russell during a live event earlier this year. Whitehall, who hosted parts of the official season launch show, says he was also told not to mention Bernie Ecclestone or Flavio Briatore. According to the comedian, the F1 organisation was very clear about which topics were off-limits.
Whitehall is known for his sharp humour, and his involvement in the F1 event received plenty of attention. But speaking on the Eff Won podcast, he admitted that several of his planned jokes were rejected moments before the show went live.
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The joke about Russell was especially singled out, with the comedian saying he was “strongly advised” to stay away from it.
“I Was Told Not to Do the Russell Joke”
Whitehall explained what happened moments before the broadcast. “I had a joke about George Russell. It was not even that harsh, but they came to me right before the show and said: you cannot do that. They were very firm about it.”
He added that the request surprised him. “George is a bright guy, he has a sense of humour. But clearly they wanted to avoid any potential drama.”
In addition to Russell, the comedian said he was ordered to avoid two well-known names from F1’s past. “They also told me not to joke about Bernie Ecclestone or Flavio Briatore. Those were very clear instructions.”
Formula 1 Playing It Safe
According to Whitehall, the restrictions show how cautious the sport has become. “F1 wants to control the narrative around these big events. I get it. They want to keep everything clean and polished. But as a comedian you want a bit of freedom.”
He stressed that he enjoyed the event regardless and has no hard feelings. “It was still great fun to be part of. The drivers were brilliant. You just have to adapt. If they say don’t joke about Russell, you do something else.”
Fans React With Amusement
The story has sparked lighthearted reactions online, with many fans joking that Russell has now joined the exclusive list of “untouchable” F1 personalities. Others pointed out that the sport has become more sensitive to public image as it continues to grow in the United States.
Whitehall ended his anecdote by saying he hopes F1 will one day loosen the rules again. “This sport has amazing characters. Let comedians have a bit more fun with them. It is all part of the show.”
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