Alpine and FIA Condemn Online Abuse of Yuki Tsunoda Following Imola Incident
The Alpine Formula 1 team and the FIA have reacted firmly against online abuse directed at driver Yuki Tsunoda after a Friday practice incident during the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola.
During the first practice session, Franco Colapinto, returning to F1 with Alpine, obstructed several drivers, resulting in Tsunoda gesturing his frustration at being blocked. While this incident was typical of practice sessions and held little significance, it triggered a backlash against Tsunoda from a minority of Argentinian fans, including racially charged comments on his social media.
Colapinto publicly encouraged his supporters to treat all drivers with respect, acknowledging that Tsunoda’s frustration was valid. The Alpine team’s statement emphasized the importance of compassion within motorsport, urging fans to recognize the humanity behind the helmets: “As a team, we cannot condone online abuse and urge all fans of this sport we love, to be kind and respectful,” it read.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem reiterated the governing body’s commitment to combatting online harassment in motorsport, stating: “Motorsport is built on competition, passion, and commitment… that passion and excitement should unite us, not lead to abuse or hate.”
Further complicating the issue, Alpine reserve driver Jack Doohan faced harassment due to a false social media portrayal of his father mocking Colapinto’s qualifying crash, prompting yet another call for respectful conduct among fans during the event.
The statements from Alpine and the FIA underline a collective stance against online abuse, highlighting the need for a supportive and respectful community within motorsports.
