The Indy 500 was last run in front of the public in 2019. EPA / AOP
There has been great concern in the U.S. about the safety of the legendary Indy 500 motorsport event. The race is set to run after a two-year hiatus in front of the public, but this time the recent mass shootings in the United States are perceived as a security risk.
An audience of 300,000 people is expected to attend the event. More than 1,100 police forces are investing in the security of the race day.
“I think that’s a good amount to keep the area safe,” said the CEO of Indianapolis Motor Speedway Doug Boles To Reuters.
– I always worry about the weather. It’s a big challenge for the event, but now this global situation gives cause for greater concern.
In Buffalo earlier this month, an 18-year-old man opened fire in a grocery store. A heavily equipped person killed ten people and injured at least three.
Another 18-year-old man struck school just ten days later in South Texas, killing 19 children and three adults.
Especially the drivers of the Indy 500 coming from abroad have been shocked by the recent mass shootings.
Current Indy driver and familiar from F1 Kimi Räikkönen former teammate Romain Grosjean has noticed an increase in shootings after moving to the US.
– I’m shocked by what happened. I want to believe that my own children and family will not be around. I hope the cases end. Schools and grocery stores should be places where there is no need to fear, Grosjean told Reuters.
The Indy 500 will be run on Sunday, May 29th. On Indianapolis Motor Speedway.