FIA set to restrict pre-race grid access for F1 guests

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The FIA is considering imposing more severe restrictions on pre-race grid access in Formula 1 after safety concerns were raised following this month's Spanish Grand Prix.

F1's grid is typically populated by a contingent of media, team guests, celebrities and hangers-on that add to the color of the pre-race atmosphere.

But in Spain, guests – who included Brazilian football star Neymar Jr – were seen blending in with the teams' crews on the edge of the track on the grass at the start of the formation lap.

The scene prompted a statement from the FIA's World Motor Sport Council: "The FIA President stressed that protecting the health and well-being of everyone on the grid – guests, officials and teams was the FIA’s priority."

Neymar Jr standing on the side of the track in Barcelona as the field sets off on its formation lap.

As the governing body – which is also awaiting the results of an investigation into the post-race track invasion that took place in melbourne earlier this year – considers limiting grid access in the future, president Mohammed Ben Sulayem says future restrictions may also apply to other international racing series.

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“We must take learnings from the incident at the Spanish Grand Prix," said the FIA president.

"The FIA has been assured by Stefano Domenicali (CEO of Formula 1), that measures are being taken to ensure that there is no repeat of the incident.

"It is an issue not just in Formula 1 but also in Formula E and World Endurance Championship and other categories from my recent experiences with too many people on the grid at some events.

"I have no doubt that in all cases, the promoter will adhere to the FIA requirements on safety and security. It is the duty of the FIA to ensure a safe environment for all.

"Safety in motor sport is the Federation’s main priority."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.