Spectators Break Through Lintsan In Interlagos, FIA: "Unacceptable Situation"

Spectators at Interlagos are a new record. (photo: twitter @f1)

JAKARTA - The FIA has determined that the organizers of the 2023 Brazilian Grand Prix, Sunday 6 November, created an "unacceptable situation" by allowing an invasion of the Formula 1 trajectory that could result in "very bad consequences."

After Red Bull racer Max Verstappen crossed the finish line eight seconds ahead of McLaren's Lando Norris to win 71 laps of the race, the crowd's "big group" entered the track.

This incident occurred at Turn 1 as long as the box flag was raised and while the cars were still on track. Although there were no injuries, the commissioners summoned the race officers because of serious concerns regarding circuit security and racing.

There was an agreed time when the gates were opened to allow fans to enter the track so that many could go straight to the podium ceremony. At Interlagos, people climbing the fence of the track is still considered reasonable.

After reviewing CCTV evidence and hearing from race organizers, the FIA has determined that any action is "not implemented and/or not sufficient, which results in an unsafe environment."

The regulatory body noted: "(The organizers) honestly acknowledged the failure in terms of security protocols and safety measures. (They) agreed with the report of the Deputy Delegation of the FIA and the Director of Racing and agreed that a similar situation had already occurred in Brazil and that this was an unacceptable situation that could be bad."

In line with a similar incident at the end of the 2023 Australian GP, when Nico Hulkenberg's car was also on track in unsafe conditions due to possible electric charging, Brazilian GP officials had to carry out a thorough investigation and take timely improvement measures for the 2024 race.

On January 30, 2024, race organizers must "test formal repair plans to the adequate FIA to address serious concerns."

The commissioners asked the FIA to review agreed measures and the World Automotive Sports Council could impose further sanctions. However, the Australian GP did not face further sanctions.

The race itself set a record number of spectators because tickets were sold out. Around 267,000 people attended the Interlagos circuit over the weekend.

Earlier this weekend, it was announced that the Brazilian GP had approved a five-year contract extension, which was added to the existing deal, would keep the race on the F1 calendar until the 2030 season.