Formula 1 world reacts in shock to fan incidents at Austrian Grand Prix – Sebastian Vettel calls for life bans
Sebastian Vettel says Formula One should hand out life bans to offending fans after harassment was reported at the Red Bull Ring during the Austrian Grand Prix weekend
During the race weekend in Spielberg, a number of fans were harassed by other supporters at the circuit, including homophobic and racist insults, name-calling and other offensive comments.
Formula One responded to the reports and announced it would speak to the organisers of the race at the Red Bull Ring to take action. Vettel calls for strict bans on fans behaving offensively on Formula One circuits, calling for a “zero tolerance” approach.
Vettel: Alcohol does not excuse wrong behaviour
“It’s terrible, isn’t it? I think it’s good that these things are coming to light, that’s the start, but it’s terrible,” said Vettel after the Austrian Grand Prix, where he finished 17th, the last of the drivers to finish.
“Whoever these people are, they should be ashamed and banned from racing events for life. I think there should be zero tolerance. If you enjoy yourself and drink too much, that’s fine, but that doesn’t justify or excuse wrong behaviour,” said the German.
Red Bull team boss Christian Horner “shocked “
“We race as a unit and the fans are part of that.” Red Bull team boss Christian Horner also described the abuse as “unacceptable” and hopes officials will take action.
“We are shocked to hear that there have been some incidents of abusive behaviour in the stands and fan parks,” Horner said.
“This is totally unacceptable and we hope that security and the authorities will act quickly to deal with it, because there is no place for that in racing or in society as a whole. We value inclusion and want a safe space for fans to enjoy our sport. “
Daniel Ricciardo says his McLaren Formula One team will support victims of the abuse and that the harassment cast a shadow over the Austrian weekend.
“I just heard about it after the race and I found out that there are a couple of victims that I think are in the paddock, so we’re going to go and say hello to a couple of them and give them some love,” he says.
“I hate negativity. I don’t like to talk about negative news, but if that’s the case then it’s a damn shame. I was just asked about the booing after Lewis’ crash yesterday and I understand that everyone is here to have a good time, have a few beers and get a bit rowdy, but of course there are limits to a lot of things. “
Formula 1 will investigate matter
“It’s a shame and it’s a bit of a downer on a weekend that should be fun and feel good from start to finish. So we will try what we can to help some of the victims and give them a little love.”
Ahead of Sunday’s Austrian Grand Prix, Formula One issued a statement on the matter saying, “We have been made aware by reports that some fans were subjected to totally unacceptable comments from others at the event.”
“We have discussed this with the organiser and security and will be speaking to those who have reported these incidents and take the matter very seriously. This type of behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated and all fans should be treated with respect. “