IndyCar driver issues statement after receiving death threats

IndyCar driver Theo Pourchaire has issued a statement detailing he received “death threats” following the Detroit Grand Prix last weekend.

The incident-filled race saw contact made between Pourchaire and Juncos Hollinger driver Agustin Canapino.

Canapino lost a handful of positions due to the incident which took place during one of the race's many restarts, while Pourchaire was deemed the guilty party and received a penalty.

The race was Pourchaire's fourth in the IndyCar Series, with the French driver continuing to act as the Stake Formula 1 team's reserve driver.

Taking to social media, Pourchaire stated: “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. 

“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.”

McLaren/Juncos statement

Acknowledgement of the online abuse also came from Pourchaire's Arrow McLaren team as well as Juncos.

A joint statement between the two parties was released on Monday evening in which they condemned the online reaction directed towards Pourchaire.

“The past 24 hours have unfortunately provided our teams with a stark reminder about the necessity for respect and civility in our online interactions,” it read. 

“Social media allows us to engage with our fans around the world, but it is important that we interact with each other in a respectful and safe environment. 

“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. 

“The NTT IndyCar Series delivers dynamic action on the racetrack and incredible access for fans, 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.”