This year’s edition of the WRC spectacle in Croatia, in addition to sporting excitement, was also marked by an unusual and extremely dangerous scene that soon became viral on social networks. Italian photographer Matteo Lelli caused harsh criticism from the public and the profession after he published a video on his Instagram profile showing him following the speeding cars hidden in a shaft, right next to the edge of the race track.
Although it is known that followers of rallies often look for innovative ways to record the most attractive shots, Lelli’s action was evaluated as an extreme example of irresponsibility. This behavior directly violated the safety protocols that are essential for holding such high-risk sports events. “Don’t come to the races anymore,” they told the Italian.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) reacted urgently to the incident, stressing that there is no justification for such actions. In its statement, the FIA emphasized that individuals who put themselves in dangerous positions not only endanger their own safety, but also that of car crews and other spectators and trackside staff. They also appealed to the fans to stick exclusively to the approved zones so as not to become the reason for the cancellation of speed tests.