British Indycar star Callum Ilott issues warning after death threats

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British Indycar driver Callum Ilott has admitted social media abuse could go “too far” as he called out death threats he received after the Grand Prix of Long Beach. Ilott said the abuse was “unacceptable” as he called on those responsible to think of the consequences.

It came after Ilott impacted on his team-mate, Agustin Canapino’s, chances to win the third race of the season. Early contact with the wall promoted him to pit but he returned to the track just in front of Canapino which bunched him into the pack.

After the race, Ilott posted on Twitter: “Genuinely impressed by the amount of death threats and abuse I’ve received. Definitely a new record by far, really appreciate the effort to help me learn all these new Spanish words. I’m going to the beach now. hasta luego.”

However, the 24-year-old Cambridge-born star called out the remarks hours after the race finished. He added: “On another note, it’s an important reminder to all new and old fans/people. Respect goes both ways.

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“Although I have thick skin and am used to this behaviour occasionally. One day it will go too far to someone who can’t deal with it as well as others. It’s unacceptable on any level and those who encourage it should have a real think about the consequences of their actions.

“But I would like to thank everyone who has supported me, it means a lot.” The ex-Formula 2 star received a wealth of support including from his fellow IndyCar rivals.

Jack Harvey replied: “Hate you’ve had to deal with all this crap mate. Totally unacceptable. Show them in Barber.” Meanwhile, German protege Sophia Floersch sent her backing by posting an applause and thumbs-up emoticon underneath Ilott’s message.

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It comes just months after F1 world champion Max Verstappen also called out the effects of online abuse. Speaking ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix in Brazil, Verstappen stressed comments aimed at his family were “disgusting”.

The Dutchman commented: “All the things I’ve read is pretty disgusting, even more than that they started attacking my family. If you have a problem with me, that’s fine but don’t go after my family because that’s unacceptable.”

Lewis Hamilton has also been the victim of online abuse with the seven-time champion and Mercedes receiving racist remarks after the 2021 British Grand Prix. The comments were made after Hamilton and Verstappen collided in a 51G shunt at one of the sport’s fastest corners.

F1, the FIA and Mercedes reacted: “These people have no place in our sport and we urge that those responsible should be held accountable for their actions.”

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