A number of F1 drivers have incredibly defended the ridiculous actions taken by anti-oil protesters at the British Grand Prix, who stormed the circuit on the opening lap before sitting on the Silverstone International Circuit.
Had the race not been red-flagged for Guanyu Zhou’s terrifying crash, then it’s worrying to think what might have occurred on the Wellington Straight.
It was rumoured prior to the weekend that protesters were planning a track invasion, with local authorities pleading with those who were planning the protest to not do so.
Unfortunately, the complete opposite happened, much to the surprise of Carlos Sainz.
“I thought the red flag was for that,” said the race winner, “because as soon as I came out of turn five, I saw three guys running towards me.”
Sainz and a number of drivers have defended the protest, with the Spaniard insisting he “supports the cause”, but wishes it was done in a “more careful” manner.
Sainz said the protesters should “be a bit more careful because you could get killed and generate an accident.”
This is the last thing F1 would’ve needed, with the halo device having already saved the life of Zhou and F2 racer Roy Nissany on Sunday.
Sir Lewis Hamilton was another to praise the protesters when asked about them, insisting that he “loved” seeing people “fighting for the planet”.
“Big up those guys,” Hamilton declared.
“I love that people are fighting for the planet and we need more people like them.”
However, following their actions, the Mercedes F1 Team released the following message from Hamilton himself on Twitter.
Sergio Pérez was another who enjoyed seeing “people fighting for their cause”.
The Mexican wasn’t happy, though, that people risked their lives doing so, explaining that he is “sure” F1 can “do more” to please the protesters.
“It’s great to see people fighting for their cause but obviously they shouldn’t put themselves or other people at risk,” said Pérez.
“But I’m sure that Formula 1 can still do more and we have to keep pushing all together to show a good example.”
Following the incident, seven people were arrested by the police after being dragged off the circuit by marshals, who risked their lives to remove the protesters.
“The matter is now being dealt with by the local authorities,” said the FIA.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, labelled the incident as “incredibly stupid and unforgivable”.
The Italian was furious that people’s lives were put at risk.
“People can show their opinion responsibly,” F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said, “but to run onto the track and put drivers, track officials and themselves at risk is incredibly stupid and unforgivable.”
The protesting group have different views; however, after announcing their intent on causing further “disruption to sport”.
The group pledged to “continue to disrupt sports, cultural events and oil until this demand is met.
“How many more young people have to step up before the government will listen?” questioned the protesters.