The home team finally spoke out publicly about the harassment reported by women. Austrian GP grandstands were also the scene of racist and homophobic insults
Red Bull has spoken out about the cases of harassment in the stands at the Austrian Formula 1 Grand Prix. After several reports, which also extend to racist and homophobic insult episodes coming from some fans, the home team has adopted a public position and called for action from the responsible authorities.
"While we all appreciate the passionate support of the majority of fans in Spielberg this weekend, we are shocked to hear that there have been incidents of completely unacceptable behavior in the stands and public spaces," said the statement issued by Red Bull.
"We hope that security and the authorities will deal with this quickly. There is no place for this in racing or in society as a whole. We value inclusion and want a safe place for fans to enjoy our sport," the statement added.
Formula One and Lewis Hamilton had already spoken out publicly about the reports of harassment. The category said it was aware of the events and promised to take action for what it called "unacceptable behavior," while the seven-time world champion said he was "disgusted."
The behavior of the crowd in Austria had already drawn attention in qualifying for the sprint race. During Q3, as soon as Lewis Hamilton crashed, the stands were euphoric.
However, what happens at the Spielberg circuit is not just a matter of rivalry between teams. Many women, especially, took to the networks to share how uncomfortable it has been to attend the racetrack to follow F1. "The behavior has been so... disappointing. My expectations were already not very good, but gee, racism, swearing, harassment... the list goes on," wrote, for example, a female fan on Twitter.
"Can I also say that it is horrible. Not even 1:30 of the event since I arrived in the morning and I already received misogynistic comments. Then it was downhill, inappropriate touches and other misogynistic comments," said another fan also on social media.
On Instagram, the profile "Team LH Netherlands", in support of Hamilton, shared an absurd situation reported by a fan of the Englishman present at the Red Bull Ring. "I felt it, as a Hamilton fan amidst the orange army. Yesterday, a group of five Dutchmen, Max fans, lifted my dress and when I confronted them, they said Hamilton fans didn't deserve any respect."