Racism: The FIA Remains Indifferent to Ecclestone’s Comments

The FIA expressed its total indifference to the statements of Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, who described the plan for the race against racism as useless.

Ecclestone sparked some controversy over the weekend when he said on BBC Radio that he considered the racist insults heard during the Barcelona trials as a one-time event. He further stated that the ‘anti-racism’ campaign in F1 would only serve to give undue attention to the troublemakers.

« The FIA has a very clear position on this subject, » a spokesperson for the FIA told The Guardian newspaper.

« We will not tolerate racism in our sport and we will take all necessary measures to ensure that such scenes of racist abuse never happen again. »

Despite Ecclestone’s skepticism, a number of Formula 1 teams have already expressed their support for the campaign led by the FIA, with Honda Racing being the latest example.

The CEO of the Japanese team, Nick Fry, said: « We were shocked and appalled to hear racist insults towards Lewis Hamilton during the last tests. »

« Honda Racing is determined to promote a work environment that advocates for equal opportunities, and our employees alone represent 24 nations. »

« We unequivocally condemn all forms of racism, and we are pleased to support the FIA’s ‘anti-racism’ campaign. »

Ecclestone has also been sharply criticized by Weyman Bennett, who is part of the commission that works against fascism.

He told The Guardian: « I think these comments are unacceptable. He should be the first to say that bigotry and racism are not tolerated in Formula 1. The idea of ignoring racist people is simply unacceptable. »