Much has been made of fan’s behaviour in Formula One over the past couple of days and the 2022 season as a whole.
Lewis Hamilton has spoken about how toxic a place social media can be, while Pierre Gasly has questioned the behaviour of those that have the privilege to enter the paddock.
The Frenchman told reporters that over the previous two races he has found his personal bag had been opened by guests in the paddock, and that he was frustrated by guests interrupting for photos at crucial times, such as before qualifying.
Lando Norris has also suggested that fans can go overboard sometimes, with drivers now choosing to go around the back or have security guards force a hole for them just to avoid being mobbed.
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Carlos Sainz has now come out to voice his opinion, with the Ferrari driver stating that he actually loves all the fan interaction, provided everyone is sensible.
The Spaniard has become a favourite amongst fans for his charismatic and humorous personality, becoming known to sing over the team radio from time to time, even giving himself the nickname of a ‘smooth operator’.
“I love having the fans around me, I love having everyone around us,” he said when asked in Mexico about the other drivers’ concerns.
“I guess, especially because I am Latin, I have a special relationship [in Mexico].”
“I only ask everyone to stay calm,” he added.
“We are in a paddock. Don’t push and don’t shout too much, but apart from that, I am totally fine with it.”
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The Mexican fans put on a show at the Grand Prix last weekend, with a carnival atmosphere being created all the way from FP1 to the race, and generally the behaviour of these fans was good.
Sergio Perez, the golden boy in Mexico, had to urge fans not to boo Lewis Hamilton however, with the Brit being given a frosty reception after race most likely because he prevented Perez from finishing second.
It is hoped by the drivers that the fans can learn the boundaries of their interactions with the drivers, with Norris and others suggesting that no driver actually wants to avoid fans, it is more of a case that they are forced to for their own safety or timekeeping.