Grand Prix organisers eye tighter security measures after embarrassing track invasion

Expect higher fences next year.

Fans of next year’s Singapore Grand Prix (GP) might be greeted with higher fences and a gre

Higher fences and an increased number of marshals will greet fans of next year’s Singapore Grand Prix, after this year’s event suffered an embarrassing track intrusion that earned the ire of the international community.

According to a statement from the International Automobile Federation (FIA), GP organisers are mulling tighter security measures in order to prevent a repeat of this year’s fiasco.

“The Singapore Grand Prix organisation is currently studying plans to increase security in identified areas. In the affected area where the intrusion occurred, it is considering plans for the installation of higher spectator fences,” FIA said.
It has been established that the intruder climbed over a 1.1 metre high security fence at a designated Egress Point (EP), gained access to a protected 2-metre-wide Marshal Zone, crossed a carriageway and slid through the opening in the EP. He managed to enter the track in less than 10 seconds.

The 1.1m fence in question is of a similar height to fencing used at a number of other F1 events.

The individual crossed the track, walking in reverse race direction, and then exited the track approximately 15 seconds later via another EP to the drivers’ left.

“A substantial increase in the number of marshals in attendance at the event is also being evaluated. These marshals would work hand-in-hand with the security personnel in spectator areas,” FIA added.