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FIA President Speaks Out Against Shocking Driver Abuse at Imola GP

The Formula 1 community was rocked over the Imola Grand Prix weekend—not just by intense on-track action, but by a disturbing wave of online abuse aimed at several drivers, prompting a strong response from the FIA president.

Yuki Tsunoda, the Japanese F1 driver for RB (formerly AlphaTauri), suffered a dramatic crash during qualifying at the iconic Imola circuit. His car flipped after losing control on the exit of the Tamburello corner, resulting in a spectacular but thankfully non-injurious accident. Meanwhile, Franco Colapinto, an Argentine talent making his debut F1 race weekend appearance with Alpine, also endured a crash in qualifying. Both drivers had to start Sunday’s race from the back of the grid—Tsunoda in 15th and Colapinto in 20th.

But the story extended beyond the racetrack. Earlier in the weekend during a practice session, tensions flared between Tsunoda and Colapinto when the Japanese driver appeared to be blocked by the rookie. Tsunoda was seen gesturing toward Colapinto in frustration, a moment that quickly spread across social media.

This single incident sparked a wave of vile abuse, mainly from a section of Colapinto’s fanbase. Tsunoda became the target of hateful messages online, some of which were reported to be racist. The toxicity even extended to Jack Doohan, the young driver replaced by Colapinto at Alpine for this race weekend.

Tsunoda later addressed the situation, expressing that such attacks were “unnecessary” and damaging—not just to him but to others involved. His comments highlighted the growing concern over cyberbullying and abuse in motorsport.

In response, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem took to Instagram and released an official statement condemning the online hate and showing support for those affected.

“Motorsport is built on competition, passion, and commitment,” Ben Sulayem wrote. “Every race, drivers take to the track representing these values. The passion and excitement we feel for our sport should unite us, not divide us through abuse or hate.”

He continued by standing in solidarity with both Tsunoda and Colapinto, thanking them for using their voices to speak out against the rise of online harassment.

“No one should be subjected to threats, hatred, or discrimination,” the FIA president emphasized. “There is no place for abuse or toxicity in our community.”

He also reinforced the FIA’s efforts to combat this issue through its United Against Online Abuse campaign. This initiative is aimed at raising awareness, providing resources and support for victims, and pushing for systemic change within and beyond the sport.

“We are committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of everyone in our sport,” he concluded. “Together, we can build a safer, more respectful environment for all.”

This incident has once again raised questions about fan culture in motorsport, particularly around the responsibilities that come with supporting drivers in such a global and passionate sport. While competition fuels the excitement of F1, it’s clear that respect—both on and off the track—is essential to its future.

As the season continues, the FIA’s message is clear: passion must never be a vehicle for hate.