Formula 1 has said it will end its tradition of using grid girls.

In a statement today, Sean Bratches, Managing Director of Commercial Operations at Formula 1 said:

“Over the last year we have looked at a number of areas which we felt needed updating so as to be more in tune with our vision for this great sport.

“While the practice of employing grid girls has been a staple of Formula 1 Grands Prix for decades, we feel this custom does not resonate with our brand values and clearly is at odds with modern day societal norms.

“We don’t believe the practice is appropriate or relevant to Formula 1 and its fans, old and new, across the world.”

The use of grid girls will end commencing with the start of the 2018 F1 season that begins with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 25.

The changes will also apply to other races which take place on Grand Prix weekends.