F1 News: FIA Considers Huge Pre-Race Change After Safety Concerns

The FIA is considering enforcing stricter grid access policies at racing events due to safety concerns, which may fundamentally change pre-race traditions.

Racing events like Formula 1 often see celebrities and esteemed guests alongside team personnel on the grid before the race. However, the tradition has come under scrutiny following recent safety incidents and the grid walk procedure could be set to change, according to reports.

The World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) is presently awaiting a report from the event organiser, expected in June, detailing remediation plans for safety and security following a track breach at the Spanish Grand Prix. Problems occurred when some of the guests were still on the side of the track whilst the formation lap was taking place.

According to Autosport.com, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has underscored the importance of safety, stating: 

“We must take learnings from the incident at the Spanish Grand Prix. The FIA has been assured by Stefano Domenicali [F1 CEO] that measures are being taken to ensure that there is no repeat of the incident.

"It is the duty of the FIA to ensure a safe environment for all. Safety in motor sport is the Federation’s main priority.”

Autosport sources suggest that the WMSC might respond by restricting grid access. This move would be a stark departure from past events where celebrities such as Usain Bolt, Jeremy Clarkson, Gordon Ramsay, and Kylie Minogue were allowed on the grid even as cars were about to move. 

It is currently unclear when the results of this meeting will be released. It will be interesting to see how this changes the grid walk which is a large part of the build up to the Grand Prix races.