“I’ll hunt you with a knife”: F2 harassment reaches alarming levels
Formula 2 is going through a silent but serious crisis: online harassment of its drivers. After Richard Verschoor's threatening comments and Alex Dunne's collapse in a press conference, the FIA, F2, F3 and F1 are calling for respect. But in the face of the hatred being spilled, will this be enough?
An unbearable climate of tension. Social media has become a battleground where passion turns into violence. That’s what several Formula 2 drivers have experienced in recent weeks. Alex Dunne, criticized for a collision at the start of the Monaco Grand Prix, literally broke down in tears at a press conference in Barcelona. A scene that moved as much as it alarmed.
His colleague Richard Verschoor also spoke out to denounce the threats received. Some are beyond comprehension. « Richard Verschoor, when I get my hands on you… », « You better run because I’m going to hunt you down with a knife », he received.
Messages that, according to the Dutchman, are becoming more and more common. This kind of language should not become the norm.
A collective condemnation, but real limitations
Faced with the magnitude of the phenomenon, the FIA, along with the management of F1, F2, and F3, issued a statement as part of the United Against Online Abuse campaign. They reaffirm their commitment to report and combat this type of verbal violence. « We ask everyone to remain respectful towards the athletes and their teams. »
But this collective stance seems quite modest in the face of the violence of the words. Will the statement, although essential, be enough to stem the tide of hate?
McLaren and Andrea Stella go on the offensive
The strongest support came from Andrea Stella, director of McLaren F1, the team for which Alex Dunne is a junior driver. « People can attack without foundation, sometimes without competence. I am proud of the way Alex reacted. »
Stella calls for a general awareness. « The sense of responsibility is the main message I would like to convey. » He also defends his driver on the merits, reminding that mistakes are part of the learning process.
« Alex is fast, talented, and the situation experienced in Monaco can be a source of learning. His race today, calm, clean, and smart, is a direct response to this pressure. »
Pilots under constant pressure
Digital proximity with fans is a double-edged sword. While it enhances accessibility, it exposes young drivers to constant psychological violence. Dunne has already deleted his social media accounts. How many others will have to do the same before platforms truly take responsibility?
This is no longer just a matter of sports, but a question of mental health and safety. In this context, the mobilization of authorities and teams is crucial, but it must be accompanied by concrete actions.
