formula 1
Hamilton does not want to be banned from speaking
Strong opinion: Formula 1 record world champion Lewis Hamilton. photo
© Britta Pedersen/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa
Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton does not want to comply with the new guidelines from the World Automobile Association when it comes to expressing opinions.
Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton does not want to comply with the new guidelines from the World Automobile Association when it comes to expressing opinions.
The Fia had specified in its statutes that the pilots are prohibited from making political, religious or personal statements or comments, in particular contrary to the general principle of neutrality, unless they have previously been approved in writing by the federation.
Hamilton, who has also used his worldwide fame for years in the fight for equality and diversity and against racism, among other things, now emphasized that “nothing can stop me from talking about things that interest me passionately”.
If there is something that needs to be said, he will continue to do so, he said on the sidelines of the presentation of the new Mercedes for the coming season. As in 2020 and 2021, the Silver Arrow will again be painted black, this time primarily for reasons of weight.
“Certain Responsibility”
“Sport has a certain responsibility to help draw attention to grievances,” explained Hamilton, who, together with Sebastian Vettel in particular, is the political spokesman for the pilots until the end of his career after last season. Nothing changes for him, emphasized 38-year-old Hamilton, who was the first black man to enter Formula 1 in 2007.
Teammate George Russell agreed with his British compatriot. “I think that’s totally unnecessary,” he said of the ban, still hoping it was a misunderstanding. “We will not limit our views and thoughts by any stupid rules.”