IndyCar Series debutant Theo Pourchaire says he got “hate and death threats” in the wake of an altercation with Argentina’s Agustin Canapino.
On lap 60 of the race, the Frenchman lost control of his car into the turn one braking zone and smashed into the side of Canapino.
Despite the hard collision, the duo were able to continue with Pourchaire in eighth and Canapino in ninth at the time. They finished 10th and 12th respectively.
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Despite no real harm being done, Pourchaire stated he was on the receiving end of abusive communications.
Theo Pourchaire gets airborne after making contact with Agustin Canapino.
Theo Pourchaire gets airborne after making contact with Agustin Canapino. Stan Sport
“I’m sad I received so much hate and death threats in the last 24 hours for such a small incident in the Detroit GP,” stated the 20-year-old.
“I hope people can understand that we are all humans and we can make mistakes. But it’s not normal to abuse people online. Please be kind to each other.”
A joint statement was made by McLaren and Juncos Hollinger Racing denouncing the reaction to the situation.
“The past 24 hours have unfortunately provided our teams with a stark reminder about the necessity for respect and civility in our online interactions,” the statement stated.
“Social media allows us to engage with our fans throughout the world, but it is crucial that we interact with each other in a courteous and secure setting.
“We will not tolerate any form of abuse or discrimination, and those participating in such actions are not welcome in our online community and will be blocked.”
Theo Pourchaire on the streets of Detroit for McLaren.
Theo Pourchaire on the streets of Detroit for McLaren. Joe Skibinski
The IndyCar Series gives dramatic action on the racetrack and unparalleled access for viewers, but we must remember that behind the wheel, the pit wall or the monitor, we are all human beings.
“It is vital that we collectively maintain a safe and welcoming community for all involved.”
It’s not the first time occurrences involving Canapino have received a sharp reaction from social media users.
His former teammate Callum Ilott received “death threats and abuse” for a tactic that compromised Canapino’s race.
