Mexican GP reduces F1 paddock crowds to avoid security issues

During last year’s race at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, the presence of fans and VIPs in the paddock caused security issues. Spectators crowded hospitality units and approached drivers, leading to concerns.

Pierre Gasly, from the Alpine team, noticed that someone had opened his backpack, and other drivers also reported the excessive number of people in the paddock.

Gasly once again raised the issue at the Italian Grand Prix, where random individuals were knocking on his door inside the Alpine hospitality area.

While Formula 1 aims to increase accessibility, overcrowding at certain races has resulted in drivers actively avoiding the paddock to move freely.

The organizers of the Mexican Grand Prix have listened to the drivers’ concerns and collaborated with Formula 1 to limit the number of people roaming the paddock for this weekend’s race.

“We have been closely collaborating with Formula 1 to find ways to reduce the number of requests,” stated Rodrigo Sanchez, the race’s marketing director.

“We receive numerous requests from teams and sponsors, and we need to keep those lists as short as possible to create a more comfortable environment in the paddock.”

The organizers have also launched a marketing campaign to encourage spectators to show more respect towards the drivers and remind them that the paddock is primarily a working area.

Huge billboards around the city urge fans to leave rivalries on the track.

Photo by: Filip Cleeren

Mexico City GP banner

“The paddock is primarily a working area for the drivers and teams,” explained Sanchez.

“Those fortunate enough to enter this restricted part of the racetrack should understand how to behave properly. We request exemplary behavior from them. Otherwise, the race cannot function.”

These measures come after Sergio Perez’s teammate Max Verstappen faced booing at the recent United States Grand Prix in Austin.

Red Bull has increased security to protect Verstappen and other key team members, with similar protocols in place for Verstappen’s home race in Zandvoort.

“We have implemented our standard security measures and collaborated with the promoter and Formula 1 to ensure the safety of both the team and the public,” stated a Red Bull spokesperson.