Racing Bulls Addresses Viral Podium Video from Brazilian GP

A video circulating on social media showed a Racing Bulls crew member making a 'thumbs-down' gesture as Lando Norris received his trophy at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, prompting a swift internal response from the team.

Why it matters:

This incident highlights the ongoing efforts to maintain sportsmanship and respect within Formula 1, both on and off the track. The FIA has been actively campaigning against online abuse, and this type of public display from a team member, regardless of intent, can fuel negativity among fans and undermine the sport's values.

The Details:

• The Incident: During the post-race podium ceremony at Interlagos, a fan-filmed video captured a person in a Racing Bulls uniform making a 'thumbs-down' gesture towards McLaren driver Lando Norris as he received his winner's trophy.
• Team Reaction: Another Racing Bulls staff member was seen on the video appearing to lower the arm of the individual making the gesture.
• Social Media Buzz: The footage quickly went viral on social media, drawing criticism from fans who viewed the act as unprofessional.
• Official Statement: Racing Bulls issued a public statement on X, clarifying their stance: “We’re aware of the video from the weekend’s podium. It doesn’t reflect our team’s values or the spirit of VCARB. The matter has been handled internally. We believe in celebrating great racing and showing respect to every driver, team, and fan both on and off the track.”
• FIA's Stance: FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has been a vocal advocate for curbing online abuse in motorsport through the 'United Against Online Abuse' campaign, aiming to foster respectful online interactions.

The Big Picture:

Formula 1, as a global sport, strives to promote respect and fair play. Incidents like this, even if isolated, can detract from the positive spirit of competition. Racing Bulls' quick and public response demonstrates the team's commitment to upholding these values and preventing actions that could be perceived as unsportsmanlike, especially in front of a global audience.

What's next:

While Racing Bulls has stated the matter was handled internally, this event serves as a reminder for all teams and personnel to maintain a professional demeanor. The FIA's continued efforts to promote respect, both in person and online, underscore the importance of such incidents being addressed promptly to maintain the integrity and positive image of Formula 1.