F1 is at Silverstone for a British Grand Prix which is expected to attract more than 400,000 people over the three days of the event.
However, local police claim to have obtained credible information that protesters are planning to disrupt this weekend’s race, and have warned of a possible track invasion during the grand prix.
In a statement released by Northamptonshire Police, the event’s chief inspector Tom Thompson urged protesters not to invade the Silverstone track for safety reasons.
“We have received credible information that a group of protesters are planning to disrupt the event and possibly invade the track on race day,” Chief Inspector Thompson said.
“First of all, I want to make a direct appeal to this group of people and ask them strongly not to endanger themselves, the drivers, as well as the many stewards, volunteers and people from the public.”
“Entering a track while cars are rolling is extremely dangerous – if they go ahead with this reckless plan, they are putting lives in danger.”
“Protesting is, of course, a human right of everyone in this country and we are more than happy to speak with you to help facilitate a peaceful protest on the circuit, we only ask that you do not create a situation that puts lives in danger.”
Motorsport.com contacted the FIA for comment on what protests it expected, but they declined to comment as the issue is now a police matter.
In 2020, four protesters from the environmental group Extinction Rebellion were arrested after illegally accessing the circuit and unfurling a banner before the start of the British GP .
Due to COVID-19 protocols, the 2020 British GP – and the subsequent 70th Anniversary GP which also took place at Silverstone – were held behind closed doors.
In 2003, the British GP was interrupted when Catholic priest Cornelius Horan ran down the track on the Hangar Straight on lap 11 of the race displaying religious banners.
He was later jailed for two months after being found guilty of aggravated trespassing by a Northampton court, while the commissioner – Stephen Green – was awarded a medal by the British Automobile Racing Club for risking his life by knocking Horan down to drive him away. of the circuit.
Chief Inspector Thompson has appealed “to members of the public to exercise extreme vigilance” and report any security problems to the police.
