KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 7 \u2014 Petronas president and group CEO Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik has apologised for his participation in post-race celebrations involving champagne at the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday, acknowledging that his spontaneous display of joy \u201cmay have been misplaced.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile I can categorically state I did not consume any alcohol, as a Muslim, I should have been more aware of the sensitivities associated with taking part in such celebrations,\u201d Tengku Taufik said in a statement tonight.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cAccordingly, I want to apologise for any unintended offence caused and take full responsibility for my actions.\u201d<\/p>\n
The incident occurred after Mercedes-AMG Petronas driver George Russell won the race.\u00a0<\/p>\n
As the team\u2019s title sponsor, Tengku Taufik represented Petronas in receiving the Winning Constructor Trophy and joined the traditional podium champagne spray alongside the drivers.<\/p>\n
His participation drew mixed reactions online. Some questioned the appropriateness of a senior Muslim executive taking part in a celebration associated with alcohol, even if non-alcoholic champagne was used.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Others defended Tengku Taufik, noting that he did not consume alcohol and highlighting that spraying champagne is a long-standing Formula 1 tradition.<\/p>\n
Despite the controversy, Tengku Taufik emphasised the significance of the victory and Petronas\u2019 ongoing commitment to motorsports.<\/p>\n
\u201cI felt honoured when I was invited to receive the Winning Constructor Trophy on the team\u2019s behalf,\u201d he said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cOn behalf of Petronas, permit me to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude for the continued support of our participation in what is the pinnacle of motorsports competition.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cThe successes we deliver now and in the upcoming era of sustainable fuels will indeed bear testimony to Malaysian innovation and capabilities.\u201d<\/p>\n
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