Bulletproof shields for race stars
Wary: Lewis Hamilton has been critical of security measures put in place for past Sao Paulo events
LEWIS HAMILTON is one of several top drivers protected by bullet-proof windows as the Formula One troupe returns to Sao Paulo for the annual hair-raising trip through its shanty towns.
After a number of gunpoint hold-ups in recent years on roads leading to and from the Interlagos circuit, security is being beefed up before Sunday’s Brazilian Grand Prix.
The most dangerous stretch — the few miles nearest the circuit with its slow-moving traffic through the favelas — will be heavily lined with extra gun-carrying police officers.
Some teams will also employ police escorts and local drivers trained in escape techniques.
The on-street improvements were called for by Formula One organisers and the sport’s ruling body, the FIA. An F1 spokesman said: ‘The military police from Sao Paulo have made a commitment to protect the road from the circuit to the more secure areas of Sao Paulo. It is up to teams to take any extra precautions they might choose.’
A source told Sportsmail that several leading F1 figures, including the newlyminted five-times world champion Hamilton, will travel in cars with dark, bullet-resistant windows.
Demands for greater protection increased last year after Mercedes staff were among at least three separate F1 groups caught up in a robbery. Hamilton said at the time: ‘Some of my team were held up. Shots were fired. A gun was held at one person’s head. This is so upsetting. It happens every year here. F1 and the teams need to do more.’
Brazil marks Hamilton’s return to action after his championship win in Mexico City two weeks ago. Although his personal task is done, Mercedes are still trying to win the constructors’ title for a fifth consecutive season. Only Ferrari have a better record, with six victories between 1999 and 2004.
Toto Wolff, Hamilton’s team principal, said: ‘Our aim was never to win just the drivers’ title, so our mind is on unfinished business in Sao Paulo.’
To delay Mercedes receiving massive win bonuses, Ferrari must beat them by more than 13 points here — a feat they have achieved in only two of 19 races this season.