I'd like to think that we could have events somewhat like this in the US, but alas, unless there is a tradition of having a particular event that people are trying to preserve, I don't see it.
We came dangerously close to losing the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix - the last vintage car race run on public roads in the US - in 2016, although I suspect this is not widely known. A young couple, in search of some form of Pokemon Go in-game reward had passed the roadblocks at the entrance to Schenley park, jumped at least one fence, and meandered out onto the short straight leading up to turn 13, staring at their phones as they walked. Luckily, one of the practice sessions had just ended and there were no cars on the track. The corner workers had turned away from the track seeking water and shade, and did not see them, so I yelled to them "you have people on the track." They proceeded to chase the couple away, although the young women initially did not respond to verbal commands and had to be pulled off the track by her companion. I'm convinced that if that couple had gotten hurt, despite their carelessness, it would have ended the PVGP forever.
Scott - is your article online? I'd like to read it.