Formula 1 will investigate allegations that certain spectators at the Austrian Grand Prix were subjected to discriminatory behavior.
Lewis Hamilton was one among many who demanded action, expressing disgust and dismay at the revelations.
“Something must be done to guarantee that races are safe for everyone,” he continued.
Formula 1 issued the following statement: “We take these problems extremely seriously, have brought them to the attention of the promoter and event security, and will be in contact with those who reported them.”
The statement said that the reported conduct was “inappropriate and will not be permitted.”
Christian Horner, principal of the Red Bull team, said: “We are astounded to learn that there have been instances of unpleasant behavior in the grandstands and fan parking lots. This is utterly unacceptable, and we hope that security and the authorities take fast action, since it has no place in racing or society.
“We encourage inclusion and want our fans to enjoy our sport in a safe environment.”
Ferrari added the following via Twitter: “There is no place in sports for verbal or physical abuse of any group of people. Therefore, we concur with F1 in expressing that this conduct is entirely inappropriate.”
“Fans should be banned for life,” said drivers.
Sebastian Vettel, the driver for Aston Martin, stated after the race that Formula 1 should take a “zero tolerance” policy on racist abuse and ban any supporters found guilty for life.
The four-time world champion, who finished 17th at the Red Bull Ring, stated, “I think it’s good that this information is coming out because it’s a start, but it’s awful.
“Whomever these individuals are, they should be ashamed of themselves and forever barred from racing events.
“I believe zero tolerance should be implemented. It is acceptable for people to have a good time and drink excessively, but this does not justify or excuse inappropriate behavior.
The fans are an integral component of the race.
The top three drivers in Austria were also asked their opinions on what the sport should do to combat inappropriate fan behavior during race weekends.
Charles Leclerc, the race’s victor, stated, “If we can identify these individuals, Formula 1 must take drastic measures; they should have no access to our sport.”
Max Verstappen, who finished second in front of a massive crowd at the Red Bull headquarters, suggested that alcohol consumption over the course of a three-day event could be a problem.
The Dutchman continued: “I believe there is room for improvement, perhaps in the form of increased security surrounding public areas, to keep people in check.
“Also, it’s not an excuse, but they watch the races and then go back to their homes to party, have fun, and drink alcohol. And occasionally, drinking alcohol might lead to foolish behavior. This is not an excuse, but these things are susceptible to regulation.”
Hamilton stated that not enough had been done within Formula 1 to continue the theme of inclusivity.
The seven-time world champion stated, “We Race as One was a great concept, but it was just words.” “It did nothing; there was no financing for anything, and there was no program to bring about change and begin that conversation.
“Therefore, we must utilize our platforms… we must step up and begin implementing some of the things we preach.”
Hamilton criticizes spectators’ crash response
Earlier in the weekend, Hamilton criticized Red Bull Ring spectators for celebrating during his qualifying collision.
Hamilton crashed near the grandstands filled with Dutch fans of his 2021 title rival Max Verstappen on Turn Seven.
“I was going through a lot of stuff during the accident, but after hearing that, you know… I don’t agree with any of that,” he stated.
“A driver could have ended up in the hospital, and you’re going to celebrate this?”
The incident placed Hamilton tenth in qualifying, but he was upgraded to ninth on the grid for Saturday’s sprint event due to a penalty for Sergio Perez of Red Bull. Hamilton qualified eighth and finished third in Sunday’s race.
Hamilton, speaking after the sprint, added: “It is unfathomable that anybody would do that, given how deadly our sport is. I am thankful that I was not hospitalized or severely hurt.
You should never rejoice in another person’s misfortune or injury.
