Zoom Spain making a mockery of itself due to the actions of a minority once again

A spokesperson for F1's governing body on Sunday confirmed that it is investigating a new incidence of apparent racism.

More than a year after last winter's incidents during pre-season testing at the same Circuit de Catalunya, pictures of a fan wearing shoe polish on his face and a McLaren t-shirt - presumably in derision of F1's only black driver Lewis Hamilton - were broadcasted ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix.

A FIA spokesperson said: "We are aware of it and we are looking into it."

The Paris body reacted furiously to the Barcelona testing incidents last year, launching an anti-racism campaign and warning that repeat occurrences could cost Spain its two Grand Prix.

A FIA spokesman said then: "Formula one is a global, multicultural sport and has never encountered such scenes before and will not tolerate them in future."

Also in the wake of the 2008 incident, operators of the Barcelona circuit said fans' banners and clothes would be checked at the gates.

E.A. © CAPSIS International
Source: GMM