Lewis Hamilton revealed his disgust after hearing reports of horrific abuse being suffered by some race-goers at this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix.
Attending a race is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for some people, and in any case it should always be an enjoyable and memorable weekend. But not everyone at the Red Bull Ring will feel that way after reportedly facing sexism, racism and homophobia at the hands of some of their peers.
Many took to social media to give accounts of the abuse they had faced, with one female spectator revealing she was targeted less than 90 minutes after arriving at the venue. "I got a misogynistic comment," they wrote. "And afterwards it went downhill with inappropriate touching and many more misogynistic comments."
After reading those reports, Hamilton posted his reaction on his Instagram story. "Disgusted and disappointed to hear that some fans are facing racist, homophobic and generally abusive behaviour at the circuit this weekend," he wrote.
"Attending the Austrian Grand Prix or any GP should never be a source of anxiety and pain for fans and something must be done to ensure races are safe spaces for all. Please, if you see this happening, report it to circuit security – and to F1, we cannot sit back and allow this to continue.
F1 chiefs have released a statement in which they said they had been in contact with the race promotor over the situation. "We have been made aware of reports that some fans have been subject to completely unacceptable comments by others at the event," a spokesperson said.
"We have raised this with the promoter and security and will be speaking to those who have reported these incidents and are taking this very seriously. This kind of behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated and all fans should be treated with respect."
In response, security and stewarding presence in the grandstands is being increased as well as in other areas around the track where fans generally gather to watch the racing action. Anyone who suffers or witnesses such abuse is encouraged to contact their nearest official.
