The FIA has hinted at tightening the access for personnel authorized to enter the starting grid of major racing series, including Formula 1, following an incident that occurred during this year’s Spanish Grand Prix, where footballer Neymar and other VIPs were left on the track at the beginning of the formation lap.
Celebrities, invited guests, and members of the international media are allowed, in limited numbers, to join the series officials and team personnel on the starting grid in the lead-up to Formula 1, Formula E, WEC races, and so on. However, this access is currently under review after some guests, including Brazilian footballer Neymar, were still positioned at the edge of the grass on the main straight as the formation lap of the Spanish GP began this month.
This case comes as the FIA World Motor Sport Council awaits the results of an investigation into a track invasion that occurred during the final stages of the Australian Grand Prix in April.
The event organizer is expected to submit a report on the incident in June. As part of that report, the FIA expects a “remedial plan that addresses the safety and security issues.”
According to reports from Motorsport, one of the measures being considered is the introduction of restrictions on grid access. However, according to a statement from the WMSC, “protecting the health and well-being of all participants on the grid – guests, officials, and teams – is the FIA’s priority.”
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FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated, “We must learn from the incident at the Spanish Grand Prix. The FIA has received assurances from Stefano Domenicali (CEO of Formula 1) that measures have been taken to ensure that the incident is not repeated. It is a problem that not only concerns Formula 1 but also Formula E, WEC, and other categories, based on my recent experiences with too many people on the starting grid at some events. I have no doubt that in all cases, the organizer will comply with the safety requirements of the FIA. It is the duty of the FIA to ensure a safe environment for everyone. Safety in motorsport is the Federation’s top priority.”
Formula 1 has occasionally allowed famous guests to access the starting grid as the cars began to move away from the grid. In 2017, they organized a special photo shoot with Usain Bolt at the US Grand Prix, just before the start of the formation lap.
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