Martin Brundle slammed for using derogatory term when referring to F1 driver at Spanish GP

Martin Brundle has come under fire from fans for using a derogatory remark about F1 driver Zhou Guanyu during the Spanish Grand Prix. Brundle called Zhou "Chinese" as he commented on a stunning battle between Alfa Romeo star Nico Hulkenberg and Yuki Tsunoda in the opening stages.

As the trio battled it out, Brundle said: "The German, the Chinese, the man from Japan and Finland isn't too far from them either. A very cosmopolitan race. However, fans were quick to point out Brundle's mistake on social media.

@JaykoDonutsss said, "Martin Brundle, what's going on with your choice of words?" @CathalBurke3 commented, "I think Martin Brundle just said something a little silly about Zhou."

@marielstoll added: "Martin Brundle calling Zhou Guanyu 'Chinese' just seems a bit problematic."

Zhou was born in Shanghai but moved to the UK early in his career to develop his career in motorsport. He spent some time in Italy after signing for Ferrari's academy. Some fans predicted Sky Sports bosses might take offense to Brundle's comments.

@Musicfined added: "They're going to hang Martin Brundle for saying that.." @stevenblake92 said: "I feel like Martin Brundle might be in trouble for what he said about Zhou." @Chris Sedenka posted: "Martin Brundle about to be dragged in 3…2…1…"

However, others were quick to come to the commentator's defence, with some viewers pointing out that the F1 veteran meant no harm. @annoyedracefan posted: "There was nothing [wrong] with what Martin Brundle said. Stop being offended by every word in the world."

@Biscuit_Aisle added, "It was indeed tame. But I think he realized his gaffe when he said next, '...and the man from Japan."

@GadgetMichael remarked: "I wonder why some people think the Chinese is racist. Martin Brundle called a man from China that. But they will agree with the English, Scottish, Irish, Welsh, French etc…”

@theandorianAI wrote: "I hope they will forgive Martin Brundle for his awkward comment, it is outdated but clearly not malicious or intentionally discriminatory. Save [your] outrage for the real racists.