After Neymar GP Spain incident, new safety measures for starting grid

The FIA World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) met for the second time this year in Spain, where safety in motorsport was also discussed. It discussed specific unsafe situations during some F1 races this year.

More and more celebrities on starting grid

Several safety issues were discussed during the meeting, reports the FIA. These included the storming of the circuit by F1 fans during the Australian GP in March and an unsafe situation at the start of the Spanish GP, in which footballer Neymar Jr., among others, was still standing on the grass along the track as the drivers did their warm-up lap.

The so-called 'grid walks' by the media present at F1 races are getting jollier as the years go by. As F1 is becoming somewhat Americanised, more and more celebrities are also flocking to the sport to be interviewed on the grid. These celebrities often get a luxurious hospitality package, which includes access to the starting grid. In Spain, among others, Neymar Jr. was present. The footballer, along with some others, was not off the grass on time at the grid causing a safety issue.

FIA considers measures after grid incident Neymar

With safety considerations being made, allowing all those celebrities on the grid could be reduced. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said of the incident: "We must take learnings from the incident at the Spanish Grand Prix. The FIA has been assured by Stefano Domenicali (CEO of Formula 1), that measures are being taken to ensure that there is no repeat of the incident"

The problem is not only in Formula 1, but is a known problem in all the bigger racing classes, such as Formula E and the WEC. Sulayem: "[I know that] from my recent experiences with too many people on the grid at some events. I have no doubt that in all cases, the promoter will adhere to the FIA requirements on safety and security. It is the duty of the FIA to  ensure a safe environment for all"