Dan Ticktum Blasts Autosport for Deleting His Comment on 'Chopped Up' Quotes

Formula E driver Dan Ticktum has launched a scathing critique of Autosport on social media after the publication deleted a comment he made defending himself. Ticktum claimed the original article misrepresented his race radio messages with "chopped up" quotes and that his attempt to set the record straight was unfairly removed, while abusive comments directed at him were left untouched.

Why it matters:

This public feud highlights the increasingly volatile relationship between drivers and media in the digital age, where direct interaction on social media is common. It raises critical questions about editorial control, censorship, and the power of media outlets to shape narratives, especially concerning athletes with controversial histories who are fighting to control their own public image.

The details:

• The conflict stemmed from an Autosport post about Ticktum's radio messages during the Mexico City ePrix.
• In a video response on Instagram, Ticktum argued the published quotes were "massively out of context" and "chopped up" to fit a negative narrative.
• He stated that his comment attempting to clarify the situation was deleted by Autosport, while numerous other comments calling him a "c***" were allowed to remain on the post.
• Direct Confrontation: Ticktum did not hold back, directly addressing the moderator who made the decision with "f*** you" and calling the platform's actions "very sad."
• He positioned himself as one of the few drivers willing to speak candidly, contrasting his approach with others who "lick Autosport's a**" for favorable media coverage.

What's next:

Ticktum has called on his followers to share his video widely, aiming to prevent similar incidents from happening to other drivers and to ensure "the truth" gets out. This public spat is likely to further strain his relationship with a major motorsport news outlet, potentially impacting his future media coverage, and underscores the growing trend of athletes using their own platforms to bypass traditional media gatekeepers.