Formula 1 has launched a campaign in a bid to drive out toxic abuse, featuring all 20 drivers, Stefano Domenicali and Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Formula 1 outlined that ‘we are all sending a clear message that this isn’t acceptable and must end’, following a spate of incidents in recent years.
Fans in Austria received abuse and unwanted advances, prompting Formula 1 to beef up security, while also talking to promoters of both that event and other grands prix in order to eliminate such situations.
Drivers, teams, media and fans have also received abuse on online platforms, most prominently Nicholas Latifi following his unintentional part in last December’s season finale.
In a video released on Saturday all 20 drivers, F1 CEO Domenicali and FIA President Ben Sulayem read out a statement.
“Formula 1 is all about competition and rivalry, but also respect,” it said.
“Respect as competitors, respect for our fans, respect for the whole F1 family. Abuse of any kind is unacceptable. If you cannot be respectful then don’t be part of our sport.
“We cannot let those who think they can abuse others get away with it. We have a duty to call this out and say ‘no more’.
“We are acting as a community to block those who abuse others online. We won’t allow abuse at our races. But we also need social media platforms to tackle abuse online head-on.
“Those who hide behind social media with abusive and disrespectful views are not our fans.
“We are united and ask you to join us in driving this out of all sport and society. Drive it out together.”
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