The Belgian Grand Prix has announced new restrictions in a bid to avoid a repeat of the unsavoury fan incidents which marred last month's Austrian Grand Prix.
When seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton crashed during qualifying some fans cheered and allegations of racism, sexism and homophobia were also made. In response, F1 chiefs released a statement insisting they were taking the allegations "very seriously" and had spoken with the race promote and security about the issues.
"We have been made aware of reports that some fans have been subject to completely unacceptable comments by others at the event," an F1 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." And in an attempt to avoid similar incidents at the Belgian Grand Prix, organisers behind the Spa-Francorchamps race have announced a new set of measures.
In a statement addressed to fans on social media, they said: "You are the key to a successful Grand Prix! Just follow the rules on site and have fun doing it.
"Have respect for everyone! Don't bring glass, alcohol, smoke, drones, weapons... Bikes are not allowed inside the circuit, park your bike at the Blanchimont entrance!"
At last year's race, Red Bull's Max Verstappen emerged victorious and the Dutchman will be hoping to repeat the feat this year as well. Verstappen is currently top of the driver standings and is hoping to successfully defend the crown he won in controversial circumstances last year, having opened up an 80-point lead over nearest rival Charles Leclerc.
And former Ferrari F1 driver Mika Salo has explained why he believes Verstappen has the edge over Leclerc, telling RacingNews365: "Max has a lot more self-confidence. He already has a title in his pocket and constantly wins races. That self-confidence is Max's strongest point.
"He doesn't make any mistakes anymore, whereas a few years ago he sometimes did. That is completely gone now. Max is the perfect driver and he can play with Leclerc because of that."
