Verstappen qualified second on the grid for Sunday's race behind Lando Norris then gave only short answers or said "no comment" to reporters in the official FIA post-qualifying press conference for the top three drivers.

Three-time world champion Verstappen was effectively slapped with Formula One "community service" by the governing body FIA for his use of foul language.

The Red Bull driver must "accomplish some work of public interest", said a panel of FIA stewards, after using the F-word in Thursday's drivers' press conference which was being broadcast live.

Verstappen was deemed to have used language "which is generally considered 'coarse, rude' or may 'cause offence' and is not considered suitable for broadcast," read the stewards' decision.

Dutchman Verstappen said that he was happy to answer journalists' questions outside, but not in the official FIA media session.