Police warn Verstappen fans to watch out for fake tickets as decisive F1 race approaches
The police have issued a warning on social media regarding fake tickets for the final race of the F1 season this Sunday in Abu Dhabi, where Max Verstappen and two other drivers are still able to win the season title. The police are concerned that dozens of people could fall victim to the scam, NOS reports.
Tickets and package deals are currently being offered on Marktplaats and other sites. According to the National Internet Fraud Hotline, a cluster of scam websites has come to light, and the agency is currently consulting with justice officials on possible enforcement measures.
Many of the suspected websites require the victim to message them first via WhatsApp. These types of scams are more apparent when it comes to sporting events, with the suspects taking advantage of the supporters.
The police have received hundreds of reports regarding ticket fraud in racing sports in recent years. It is estimated that around one in five victims report the crimes to the police. The police have urged people only to buy tickets from official websites and sellers.
There have currently been no reports of people being scammed for tickets for the race on Sunday at the Yas Marina Circuit, which has a capacity of 60,000 people. The costs for the F1 weekend have increased significantly in recent days; one travel organization is charging 2,600 euros for a weekend trip for two people.
For Max Verstappen to win the F1 championship, he must win the race and hope Lando Norris of McLaren finishes lower than fourth place. Norris wins the title if he finishes fourth or higher, while Oscar Piastri of McLaren can win the title if Norris finishes below sixth and he wins the race.
