The world of motorsport has recently been overshadowed by a disturbing trend of online abuse directed at several drivers. The FIA, the governing body of motorsport, has stepped in to address this escalating issue, with drivers like Yuki Tsunoda and Jack Doohan at the center of the storm.
At the Imola Grand Prix practice session, Yuki Tsunoda found himself in a tense situation when he had to back off to avoid a collision with Franco Colapinto. Tsunoda’s gesture, misinterpreted by some as rude, sparked a torrent of abusive and racist comments on social media from Colapinto’s fans.
Tsunoda, when asked about the incident, expressed his frustration but clarified that his actions were not meant to be offensive. He highlighted the broader pattern of fans targeting not just himself, but also other drivers like Jack Doohan, who had done nothing to warrant such hostility. “It’s normal to feel frustrated with traffic, but I didn’t cross any lines,” Tsunoda explained. He urged fans to channel their enthusiasm positively rather than resorting to harmful behavior.
Franco Colapinto, acknowledging the actions of some of his supporters, emphasized the importance of respect within the sport. He noted the pervasive nature of online hate and stressed the need for a more respectful dialogue among fans.
The issue reached a point where Jack Doohan felt compelled to address a false narrative being circulated about him and his family. Through his Instagram Stories, he revealed screenshots showing doctored images meant to tarnish his reputation, created by fans of Colapinto. Doohan pleaded for an end to harassment, expressing disbelief that the situation had escalated so far.
In response, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem issued a statement via Instagram condemning the toxic behavior. He underscored that motorsport should unify rather than divide, calling for a respectful environment. Through initiatives like the United Against Online Abuse campaign, the FIA is taking a stand to foster a safer community for everyone involved in motorsport.
This isn’t an isolated occurrence. In the past, Argentine fans have been linked to similar incidents in other racing arenas, such as IndyCar, where fans of Agustin Canapino have targeted fellow racers. While Canapino has not witnessed any direct threats, the acknowledgment by Colapinto reveals a concerning pattern that needs addressing.
As motorsport faces this challenging time, the focus is on preventing online abuse from becoming a norm. By promoting respect and unity, the sport can ensure that its vibrant passion doesn’t turn into harmful expressions. The call is to rally around drivers, supporting them in a manner that reflects the true spirit of competition.
