‘Invisible Fire’ Incident at Indianapolis 500 Goes Viral on Social Media – Updated May 3, 2024

The resurfacing of an old video featuring a terrifying incident at the Indianapolis 500 in 1981 has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community. The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows a racing crew and driver in a state of panic as they try to deal with an ‘invisible fire’.

The ‘invisible fire’ was caused by methanol, a type of fuel that burns with a transparent flame and no smoke. In the video, the crew can be seen struggling to understand what is happening as the fire engulfs one of the cars. The incident occurred when fuel spilled out of the refueling hose, causing a dangerous situation for the crew and driver Rick Mears.

Mears, covered in burning fuel, managed to extinguish the fire on his racing suit with an extinguisher, but not before sustaining serious injuries. He and four others were rushed to the hospital, with Mears undergoing plastic surgery on his face as a result of the accident.

The incident led to a radical change in the design of fuel nozzles in Indy cars, highlighting the importance of safety measures in motorsports. While tragic accidents have claimed the lives of many F1 drivers over the years, advancements in safety protocols have significantly reduced the number of fatalities in the sport.

As the video continues to circulate on social media, it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that drivers and crew members face in the high-speed world of Formula 1 racing. The harrowing incident at the Indianapolis 500 in 1981 is a testament to the bravery and resilience of those involved in the sport, as they continue to push the boundaries of speed and performance while prioritizing safety above all else.