Martin Brundle must cancel grid walk interview due to ex-NFL star breaking Sky rule

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix became the backdrop for an awkward encounter during Martin Brundle’s grid walk segment. The well-known broadcaster found himself engaging with ex-NFL star Russell Okung, only for the conversation to be abruptly cut short due to a breach of Sky’s promotional guidelines.

As Brundle embarked on his grid walk in Jeddah, a chance meeting with a track marshal was quickly followed by an unexpected encounter with Okung, who sported a Bitcoin t-shirt. Calling out to Brundle, Okung sought to share something exciting with the British commentator, proclaiming, “My man!” after exchanging greetings with each other. Brundle, intrigued by Okung’s enthusiasm, inquired further, prompting the former NFL player to reveal his proposition for British driver Lando Norris – a full Bitcoin as a reward if he emerges victorious in a race.

However, in a surprising turn of events, Brundle had to cut short the conversation with Okung due to the broadcast restrictions imposed by Sky on advertising. Despite attempting to maintain the conversation, the interviewer had to adhere to the channel’s guidelines while bidding farewell to Okung and acknowledging their earlier meeting in the paddock.

As Okung walked away, visibly amused by the situation, Brundle shared that the two had crossed paths mere hours before the incident. Notably, the 36-year-old NFL player has been a vocal supporter of cryptocurrency, particularly advocating for Bitcoin since 2019. His dedication was further demonstrated when he requested to receive his salary in Bitcoin during the later stages of his career, a proposal that was ultimately rejected.

Unfortunately, the eventful start to Brundle’s grid walk did not end with his conversation with Okung. While attempting to conduct an interview with music artist Usher, who was a guest of racing legend Lewis Hamilton for the weekend, Brundle faced opposition from the American singer’s security guard. The encounter bore similarities to a previous incident in Texas involving Megan Thee Stallion’s security team, thus making for a memorable and eventful grid walk for Brundle at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.