By calling for danger, Formula 1 is trying to keep protesters who caused disruption at the race last year away from the British Grand Prix. While Lewis Hamilton supports environmental activists, organizers are trying to prevent problems with “spies.”
Cho Kuan Yew’s major crash and resulting blackout took attention away from him, but during the first lap of last year’s British Grand Prix, several environmental protesters stormed the Silverstone track and sat on the asphalt as cars raced past them. Those involved have since been punished, but according to indications, there is a risk of a repeat of what happened until this year. Especially in light of the fact that there have recently been protests at cricket, snooker and rugby events in the island nation.
Silverstone organizers have braced themselves for another measure of the “Just Stop Oil” movement: A daily Mail According to Article 12, they rely on 12,000 “spies” to detect any dangerous activity.
Stuart Pringle, managing director of the track, said:
“It’s one thing to demonstrate at a flower festival or a cricket match, but when cars are going at 300 miles per hour, it’s a completely different matter. We have a total of twelve thousand workers, and we have asked them to be very careful. We encourage fans as well as staff to be our ears and eyes.” .
Many Formula 1 participants are also trying to discourage protesters from creating confusion on the track by warning of the dangers. Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, said: “There are ways to express what you want, but this is absolutely unacceptable, so I hope people understand that this is not the place to protest.” – said the Italian.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff added: “We must understand that our sector is at the forefront of sustainability. We have sustainable fuels and will have fully sustainable fuels from 2026. Technology and innovation in Formula 1 are crucial in terms of achieving emissions targets.”
“You’re putting yourself at risk, as well as the competitors. I can speak for our drivers, George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, who don’t want anyone to be in danger, be it spectators, fans or themselves. This is not the place to take big risks. You’re not holding anyone back.” “One person, you are simply putting people in grave danger.” He said.
His rival, Lewis Hamilton, is a strong supporter of such demonstrations, but at the same time he does not want people to sit next to racing cars on Sunday.
“I welcome protesters and activists because they always want positive change. But we never want to see people in the field putting themselves in serious danger. However, this starts a dialogue and discussion, which often helps. If it is done right, it will start change, and we need to “Change. We must be more sustainable and inclusive.”
– Seven-time world champion confirmed.
Image: XBPMeanwhile, his compatriot Lando Norris said that he strongly rejects a demonstration similar to last year’s.
“Of course it’s worrying. I’m not going to lie: it’s stupid to risk your life between speeding cars. It’s selfish to do what happened last year.”
– confirmed the McLaren driver.
“I’m not an expert in this area, and everyone has the right to protest, but I suppose there are better and worse ways to do it. I think Silverstone will do a good job of preventing this kind of thing. I hope people are smart enough not to do it again. There is Lots of safer ways to raise awareness.” Norris said, adding that as long as they stayed within the correct boundaries, he could also support the protesters.
