- Conor Benn was among celebrities in paddock before British GP
- Boxing star spoke to Sky Germany presenter in very awkward encounter
- The pair later made up after presenter’s faux pas and they shook hands
The grid walk at Formula One races can serve up hilarious and awkward moments in equal measure and it was the latter for Conor Benn at Silverstone this weekend.
Benn, who recently had his rematch with Chris Eubank Jr confirmed, was among the celebrities drifting around the track pre-race on Sunday.
Sky Germany were on hand, collaring various people to chat briefly, but presenter Peter Hardenacke had no idea who Benn was.
After speaking to actor Tom Holland, the presenting duo of Hardenacke and Ralf Schumacher, brother of Michael and former driver himself, turn to Benn.
Benn’s manager had tugged Hardenacke’s jacket to draw attention to the fighter.
‘He began the conversation in English – and apologised live on TV: ‘Sorry, I don’t know you. I’m really sorry. Please introduce yourself. Even though some of our viewers probably know you.
Conor Benn (right) was interviewed by Peter Hardenacke, who didn’t know who he was
Benn, pictured with Tom Holland, spoke to Sky Germany after the actor had done
Benn, pictured with Ian Wright at Silverstone on Sunday, took the faux pas in his stride
Chris Eubank Jr and Benn will fight each other once more on September 20
Benn doesn’t say his name, instead replying: ‘I’m just here to enjoy Formula 1. It’s a great experience.’
Hardenacke then asks: ‘Who are you rooting for? Benn replied: ‘Lewis and George.’
‘Okay. Let’s see what happens. Excuse the question—but what’s your name?’ asked the presenter.
‘Conor Benn’, the boxer finally exclaimed.
Hardenacke took his blunder in his stride, saying: ‘Conor Benn – I learned something again. Some people will probably blame me for it… Meanwhile, Ralf has coHempletely disappeared.
He later told BILD: ‘Suddenly, he stood in front of me, full of anticipation, and his manager asked me if I wanted to interview him. So I couldn’t get out of it.
‘Normally, my cameraman, Tobi, always tells me who’s standing in front of me. He knows all the stars. But nothing came of that.
‘So, I tried to figure out who it was myself during the conversation. Still, the motto: dare to take a risk and don’t take yourself too seriously.
The German publication say there was a friendly handshake between the two later.
Benn shot to newfound levels of fame back in April when he fought Eubank Jr in a brutal, brilliant familial grudge match.
He ended up losing a unanimous decision but the rematch is now set for September 20 – perhaps even Hardenacke will tune in.
