British Grand Prix facing possible track invasion as protestors warned
It was an inconclusive wet first practice session at the British Grand Prix as Aston Martin's Lance Stroll caused a red flag.
But fears increased as police raised the issue that protestors might be trying to enter the race to cause disruption. Northamptonshire and Silverstone police released a statement amid concerns about what could transpire ahead of the 2022 Formula 1 British Grand Prix following ‘intelligence [they] received that individuals may attempt to access the track.’
Event Commander – Chief Inspector Tom Thompson, said: “We have received credible intelligence that a group of protestors are planning to disrupt the event and possibly invade the track on race day.
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"First of all, I want to appeal directly to this group of people and strongly urge you to not put yourselves, the drivers, as well as the many marshals, volunteers and members of the public, at risk.
“Going onto a live racetrack is extremely dangerous – if you go ahead with this reckless plan you are jeopardising lives. Protesting is of course everyone’s human right in this country and we are more than happy to speak with you to help you facilitate a peaceful protest at the circuit, we just please ask that you do not create a situation that puts lives in danger.
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Inspector Thompson added: “We are very experienced in the policing of this event having done so over a number of years but let me make this clear – this doesn’t make us complacent. The security measures we have put in place are as stringent as ever and anyone thinking of taking advantage of the race weekend to commit a crime will be caught.
"Finally, I would just appeal to members of the public to be extra vigilant and to make us aware of anything you see during the race weekend that doesn’t look right. We would rather get a well-meaning report that turns out to be nothing, than not receive one at all."
The Guardian report race organisers are working with the police in order to try to avoid any disruption, where there is thought to be 400,000 spectators. "We work closely with Northamptonshire police and the emergency service agencies to put plans and procedures in place to ensure we are fully prepared to handle such situations,” said the Silverstone chief executive, Stuart Pringle.
In the warm-up, Ferrari's Carlos Sainz set the fastest time – but the wet conditions meant teams were unable to judge their new upgrades. Stroll, who turned up in a helicopter, caused a red flag and the proceedings were brought to a halt.
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