The immense level of support for local champion Max Verstappen may be overwhelming for international visitors or fans of other drivers. Zandvoort is determined to prevent any incidents of harassment similar to those that occurred in Austria last year.
The F1 organization and race promoters took action in response to the issues at the Red Bull Ring. They implemented measures to address unruly or intimidating behavior, including the Drive it Out campaign, which also addresses social media abuse.
Imre Van Leeuwen, the director of the Dutch GP, has announced that specific measures will be implemented during this year’s event. These measures include providing a designated location for fans to report any problems or negative incidents they may come across. This requirement has been set by Drive it Out.
“I cannot reword.”
“I would be greatly let down by our fans if, as supporters of Ferrari or Lewis Hamilton, you didn’t feel secure.”
This behavior is completely unacceptable, and we will not allow it to occur. We have zero tolerance for such actions, and we will revoke individuals’ tickets as a consequence.
It is important for everyone to feel included. The presence of drivers is necessary for a competitive race; without them, there would be no event. If we only had Max participating, it would not truly represent Formula 1!
At the beginning, Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing RB18, Charles Leclerc from Ferrari F1-75, Carlos Sainz from Ferrari F1-75, Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes W13, Sergio Perez from Red Bull Racing RB18, and George Russell from Mercedes W13 quickly moved ahead of the other racers.
Photo by: Steve Etherington / Motorsport Images
The problems and campaign surrounding the 2022 Austrian GP have resulted in a greater emphasis on fan conduct at race locations.
Van Leeuwen stated that our safety manager, F1, and the individuals from our team held meetings with Austria, Belgium, and Barcelona, which are popular destinations for Dutch fans.
It is enjoyable to commemorate and engage in festivities, but it is not acceptable to instill fear in others or act in a manner lacking respect.
Yes, it is crucial to put an end to that behavior. We have collaborated with other promoters to form a task force. We have implemented additional strategies to educate the public about our preferences and dislikes. Naturally, there will be consequences for individuals who violate these guidelines. Ensuring everyone’s safety is of utmost importance to us.
We now have an information center where you can share your experiences if something happens to you. There will be documentation, and we can provide support if any unpleasant incidents occur.
“We are collaborating with law enforcement and making efforts to provide people with information to the best of our abilities. Fortunately, I believe that this year in Austria, everything went smoothly, and I have not come across any problems.”
Smoke flare on the trackside
Photo by: Alastair Staley / Motorsport Images
Fans at Zandvoort have been discussing the use of orange flares, but Van Leeuwen has clearly stated that they are prohibited at the circuit.
“He mentioned that due to the sport’s popularity and Max’s influence, fans in Austria brought in flares a few years back,” he explained. “The visuals appeared impressive on television, so they captured footage featuring the flares.”
A typical supporter, not a troublemaker but an ordinary supporter, believes they are a dedicated fan when they bring a flare.
“Now it becomes evident that the abundance of flares poses a significant risk to one’s well-being. It is imperative to educate individuals that possessing a flare does not make them a commendable fan, whereas refraining from possessing one does. If one encounters a flare, it is crucial to assertively communicate, ‘Dear sir, this poses a threat to my physical condition.'”
“This is also dangerous for the drivers because I think two years ago during the formation lap in Austria, the drivers had poor vision. And that was something that a normal fan did not know. They just saw two guys with a flare and then there were four guys and then eight and 16 and 32. And now we have to bring it down.”
Ensuring that Zandvoort organizers prioritize keeping fans informed about what is deemed acceptable and unacceptable.
“We make use of LED screens to communicate throughout the day,” he clarified. “These screens serve as a source of entertainment and also provide guidance to the fans on appropriate fan behavior.”
I believe we introduced some new ideas to the entertainment program, as well as finding innovative ways to communicate through our information points and WhatsApp.
We have the option to separate the intended audiences. In the event that Gate 1 is crowded, we can advise individuals to consider using Gate 2 instead. Similarly, if there are any train delays, we can provide people with relevant information.
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