Monster fine! This is why Formula 1 organizer Austin has to pay up

Austin/Texas (USA) - These were images that are rarely seen on the racetracks of this world. After the end of the Austin Grand Prix on Sunday evening, wild scenes unfolded as the Formula 1 cars spun around on the exit lap.

The fans in Austin were almost unstoppable and stormed onto the track ahead of time.
The fans in Austin were almost unstoppable and stormed onto the track ahead of time.  © IMAGO / Imago Images

A good 200 fans stormed the track prematurely, not only injuring themselves but also causing serious accidents.

The supporters had climbed over a fence and jumped an incredible two meters into the ground. They then ran over a safety fence and another barrier.

This hole in the safety concept is now costing the Austin circuit operators dearly, as Formula1.de reports.

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) fined them a monster fine of half a million, i.e. 500,000 euros. The only ray of hope: "only" 150,000 euros are due immediately, the rest of the sum is suspended until the end of 2026.

This means that if such a serious breach of the FIA's safety protocol occurs again before then, the rest of the sum must also be paid.

Formula 1: The race organizers of Austin must present a new safety concept

By the time of the award ceremony, the area along the course had long been flooded with hundreds of fans.
By the time of the award ceremony, the area along the course had long been flooded with hundreds of fans.  © Mark Sutton / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

The general staging of the Grand Prix should not be at risk, as the "Circuit of The Americas" has established itself as a popular location for the racing circus.

However, the circuit operators must present a concept by the end of the year that includes measures to prevent further circuit invasions.

However, the Americans are not alone in facing this challenge. At previous races in Melbourne, Australia, and Interlagos, Brazil, there were also incidents where fans stormed onto the track.

The commissioners investigating the Austin incident recommended that the FIA invest the revenue from the fine in safety initiatives by the FIA safety department.