FIA slams online abuse as McKenzie and Dunne face ‘horrific’ attacks

Veteran motorsport journalist Lee McKenzie has publicly condemned a torrent of “horrific” social media abuse directed at her following her return to Channel 4’s Formula 1 coverage at last weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix.

Simultaneously, Formula 2 championship leader Alex Dunne was driven to delete his social media accounts after also enduring vitriolic attacks for his involvement in the opening lap pile-up in Monaco.

These incidents, both cruel and dehumanizing, have prompted a unified condemnation from the FIA, F1, F2 and F3, highlighting the urgent need for change.

Lee McKenzie’s Courageous Stand

McKenzie is a respected and familiar figure in the paddock, having worked in Formula 1 since 2009 across the BBC and Channel 4.

She only recently resumed her broadcasting duties with C4 after undergoing surgery and recovering from ongoing health issues. But rather than being met with support, McKenzie was subjected to a barrage of cruel remarks regarding her appearance and weight.

In a candid and heartfelt message posted on social media, the 47-year-old reporter shared her frustration—not for herself alone, but for others who may suffer in silence.

“Last month I went into hospital for an operation and I’ve been struggling with some health issues for a while now,” she wrote.

“But the comments about my appearance and weight at the Spanish Grand Prix have been horrific. I’ve had to turn off comments on my social media. It’s worth saying they came from women and men alike.

• Read also: Prost weighs social media exit amid daily Senna-related abuse

“I’m a journalist and I’m good at my job and I’m furious that this affects me. But it does and there will be people out there getting similar abuse that are not as strong as me. Don’t do it.”

McKenzie ended her post by urging people to “think before you write to someone,” adding that her health is improving, and that her return to the gym is “for me. Not for anyone else.”

FIA Responds Amid Abuse Towards Dunne

McKenzie’s experience comes amid a broader crackdown by motorsport’s governing body on rising online toxicity.

Regarding the abuse directed at McLaren protégé Alex Dunne, the 18-year-old Irish driver revealed he was forced to delete his social media accounts due to the severity of the comments he received.

“I’ve never received such bad messages in my life,” he said.

This latest incident follows recent pleas from fellow driver Jack Doohan for the abuse against him and his family to stop, after a falsified screenshot involving his father circulated online.

In light of the growing issue, the FIA, alongside Formula 1, Formula 2, and Formula 3, issued a joint statement through their United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) campaign:

“On behalf of our Teams and Drivers, F1, F2, F3 and the FIA, through their United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) campaign, firmly condemn abuse and harassment of any form.

“We’ll continue to collectively act upon and report abuse to social media platforms.

Whether you are a fan or a part of the motorsport world, we are all driven by passion.

“At the heart of it all, there are humans.

“We urge everyone to remain respectful towards the athletes and their teams.”

A Culture That Must Change

The online hate targeting McKenzie and Dunne underscores a dangerous and growing trend across motorsport, where passionate debate is too often replaced by personal attacks and dehumanising language.

Both incidents have highlighted the urgent need for change – not just in policy, but in public behaviour. As McKenzie powerfully noted, “It’s not about being unwell. It’s about the vile comments.”

With prominent voices speaking out and governing bodies taking a firmer stance, the sport now faces a critical moment to uphold a culture of respect – on track and online.

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