Atmosphere at the circuit – fans invade the circuit at the end of the race. On June 9, 2024, the Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 9, Canadian Grand Prix, took place in Montreal, Canada.
The Octane Racing Group, organizer of the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix, was summoned by the FIA after a track invasion that occurred after the Sunday race.
As soon as the checkered flag was waved and the competitors completed their cool-down lap, a group of spectators entered the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal before all cars reached Parc Ferme.
While fans of classic F1 may remember cases like Nigel Mansell being surrounded by spectators at Silverstone after his victory in 1992, track invasions are now viewed unfavorably due to various health and safety concerns.
According to Autosport, this was not the first time spectators invaded the circuit in Montreal, leading the FIA to take action by summoning the race organizers.
The Race Stewards determined that the promoters violated article 12.2.1.h of the International Sporting Code, which states a “failure to implement reasonable measures resulting in an unsafe situation.”
This decision was made after hearing from representatives of the race promoter, the FIA, and reviewing video evidence.
“The Promoter openly admitted that the security measures implemented were not successful in preventing spectators from entering the track,” stated the decision of the Stewards. “They agreed with the FIA Sporting Delegate and the Race Director’s report, acknowledging that this situation was unacceptable.
“In mitigation, the Promoter stated that they would conduct a thorough investigation and take necessary steps to address the issue before the next event in Canada.
“They also expressed disappointment, as they had already invested significant resources in improving security measures, but unfortunately these efforts did not produce the desired result.”
The Octane Racing Group has until September 30, 2024, to submit a formal plan to the global motorsport body outlining how they will address safety concerns.
The Commissioners of the Canadian GP also requested that the FIA review any actions taken by the race promoter and take appropriate measures if they are deemed inadequate.
The track invasion in Montreal is reminiscent of the incident that occurred at the 2023 Australian GP in Albert Park, Melbourne.
In response, the FIA took action, resulting in the ban of the traditional post-race track invasion organized after the 2024 race.
