The NTT IndyCar Series has released a statement relating to the online abuse and threats that Callum Ilott received following last weekend’s race at Long Beach.
Ilott made it known after the race that he had been the target of multiple threatening messages on social media, presumably from fans of his new team-mate Agustin Canapino.
Despite the drivers not colliding while competing against each other on track, some fans felt that close racing between the two hurt the rookie’s result and directed their anger towards Ilott.
IndyCar released a statement late Monday condemning the abuse and calling for support and appreciation for everyone in the paddock.
“Over the last 24 hours, some of our drivers have been the target of disrespectful and inappropriate online abuse,” read the statement. “There is no place for this behavior in our sport.
“While fierce competition and rivalry will always be a mainstay of IndyCar racing, it’s important to showcase and celebrate these attributes with ultimate respect and concern for the well-being of our competitors.
“IndyCar is a community that should always strive to build upward with support and appreciation for one another.”
There were no reports of any physical violence or threats made in person, but the aggression shared online was above and beyond typical fan favoritism.
Both drivers involved race for Juncos Hollinger Racing, and the team released their own statement which echoed the views of the series.
“After the events of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach our drivers and team have faced an exponential amount of disrespectful online abuse. This is beyond inappropriate and we as a team are very disappointed in the behavior of everyone involved. There is no place for that on our team and there is no place for that in our sport.
“Our drivers will always have respect for each other on and off the track. No matter what happens, we are in a sport where split second decision make or break the weekend. We learn, forgive, and forget.
“We as a team are grateful to have fans as passionate as we do, but we need to remember that our community is built on respect for everyone on our team and in the series. We will see you all in Barber.”
IndyCar will be back on track for the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix at Barber Motorsports Park on April 30.
