England police have confirmed the arrest of four people after a banner for climate action group Extinction Rebellion, was displayed during the Silverstone Grand Prix, by protesters on Sunday.
Silverstone circuit and Northamptonshire Police said the four people were detained by security in the venue. Extinction Rebellion UK posted a picture of the banner on their Twitter with words, ”Today at the #BritishGP we sent a message, #ActNow this is a #ClimateEmergency and we are way off track.
They also issued a statement that said they had decided to send a clear message to television viewers rather than interrupt the race, to explain their actions. The officers said they are working with Silverstone Circuit and its officials to conduct a full investigation on the matter.
The championship was closed to spectators, as it was held behind closed doors. The statement also said the climate struggle and the anti-racist movement are connected as, some of the arrested persons had worn Black Lives Matter bands in solidarity with Hamilton, the sport’s only Black driver, as part of the anti-racism campaign.
Formula one was previously targeted in the Belgian Grand Prix in 2013 by protesters, with Greenpeace activists targeting title sponsor, Shell’s oil exploration activities in the Arctic, while in 2003, the British Grand Prix was famously interrupted, as a former Irish priest ran onto the track, causing cars to go off course.