Oh dear! A case of not engaging the brain before opening the mouth here!
Niki Lauda has had to personally apologise to Robert Kubica at last weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix, after the triple World Champion referred on-air to the Renault driver as “der Polack” during his commentary for the RTL network.
The term has derogatory connotations stemming from the 1939 invasion that marked the start of World War II.
Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport reported that the network’s officials were so incensed at Lauda’s use of the term that they demanded he apologise for the remarks.
"I have to say to Robert that it was meant in a nice way," said a very embarrassed Niki. "I was just happy that he drove his car onto the front row."
Lauda reportedly apologised in person on the Sunday morning before the race. No comment could be sought from Kubica regarding the matter.
Richard Bailey
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