Barcelona vows to avoid racist row repeat

With Spain's two Grands Prix under threat because of the racism row, as the FIA awaits a report from the Spanish national motorsport association about what happened, the Circuit de Catalunya issued a statement on Monday afternoon clarifying its position.

"We strongly support the FIA's position with regards to fighting against all racial, political or religious discrimination in motor sport," said the statement.

"The Circuit de Catalunya will not allow even the smallest incident to repeat itself within its facilities, and new measures are currently being taken into consideration in addition to those implemented during the latest sessions.

"These measures have been studied with the support of the Catalan Police and the Circuit's security services, and they will be reinforced in the upcoming tests sessions and at the Gran Premio de Espana Telefonica de Formula Uno."

With the threat of sanctions against it being taken seriously, the Circuit de Catalunya added it would not 'accept any abuse' of its image - and warned that those involved could be pursued for damages.

"In case of sanctions, the Circuit de Catalunya may consider the possibility of taking legal actions against those who caused the incidents, regardless of the magnitude," continued the statement.

"The Circuit de Catalunya will officially state its position to the FIA, the Real Federacion Espanola de Automovilismo (Spanish Motorsports Federation) and the rest of circuits in Spain, with special interest for those who also host Formula One tests."