Singapore Grand Prix: Indian-Origin British National Charged for Intruding Onto Track

An Indian-Origin British man who walked across the track during the Singapore grand prix was charged in court for committing a "rash act" that endangered the lives of drivers. (Man on Track Interrupts Singapore Grand Prix) 

A charge sheet said Yogvitam Pravin Dhokia, 27, endangered the "personal safety of the drivers" when he crossed the track while the Singapore grand prix was in full swing on Sunday night on the street circuit in Singapore. (Sebastian Vettel Slams 'Crazy' Track Invader) 

It said he was accused of committing an offence under the penal code punishable with imprisonment of up to six months or a maximum fine of 2,500 Singapore Dollars (USD 1,769), or both. (Ferrari Apologises for Celebrations Getting Out of Hand)

"We can confirm the arrest of a British national in Singapore and we stand ready to provide consular assistance," a spokesperson for the British High Commission told AFP in an email.

Dhokia's passport was impounded and bail was set at 15,000 Singapore Dollars but the Briton said he could not afford the amount, local media reported.

"I'm not working currently. I spent all my savings on tickets. I don't really have that kind of money," state broadcaster Channel NewsAsia quoted him as telling District Judge Ronald Gwee.

Closed circuit television footage released after the race showed Dhokia wriggling his way through a gap in the metal fence and onto the track.

Clad in a T-shirt and shorts, he crossed the track, first walking slowly and then accelerating as race cars sped by.

Police later said they had arrested a 27-year-old man but did not give his identity.

Race winner Sebastian Vettel had a major shock on lap 36 when he spotted the man walking on the track, a bizarre incident which brought the race to a temporary halt.