Risky driving earns more attention on social media, motorsport chief says

Young drivers’ reckless behaviour can attract thousands of viewers online, Jón Þór Jónsson, chairman of the Icelandic Motorsport Association, said in an interview with mbl.is’s Dagmál programme. The association is looking for ways to move young people’s speeding from public roads to a safe motorsport setting.

Jón Þór said the environment had changed significantly with the arrival of social media. Some content shows people doing highly imprudent things, he said, and behaviour that once was seen only by those present can now reach a far wider audience.

“Now you can post it on social media and suddenly thousands of people are watching. In a way, the more stupid the act, the more likes or shares you get,” he said.

Jón Þór added that some people will always be drawn to greater risks than others.