To have a right to do things is not at all the same as to be right in doing it. Lewis Hamilton is always vocal about fundamental rights and diversity. A Former Red Bull driver threw a jab at Lewis whilst siding with the FIA regarding the regulations introduced in December of 2022.
The governing body of Formula 1 presented new regulations in December last year which denied drivers from making “political, religious and/or personal” comments without permission. Red Bull legend David Coulthard agreed with the FIA mentioning sporting arena is not a place to make such comments.
"I go to a Grand Prix to see sport. I don’t want to go to be hijacked into having to listen to one individual’s position on any subject"
-Ex- #formula1 driver #davidcoulthard says sporting arena is not the place to raise political issues |✍️ @jestalthttps://t.co/uKCLmCFv5y
— Express Sports (@IExpressSports) March 11, 2023
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As per Indianexpress.com, David Coulthard said “I go to watch a football match or a Grand Prix or Wimbledon to see the sport. I don’t want to go there to be hijacked into having to listen to one individual’s position on any subject.”
He added “Lewis Hamilton or Max Verstappen or Charles Leclerc have the power to call a press conference on a Monday – away from the sport – and talk about things that are important to them. Why not do it on a Monday? Let’s keep racing for the race days,”
Earlier this year, after disapproval shown by the drivers like Alexander Albon and Lewis Hamilton, FIA released a clarification on the regulations. Drivers required permission within the scope of international competition only. Outside the bounds, drivers are completely free to express themselves. Regardless, Lewis Hamilton is not one to be pushed around and takes responsibility to speak up about these issues.
How did Lewis Hamilton react to the FIA’s new regulations?
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The Seven-time World Champion spoke up about the issue at the Mercedes car launch earlier this year in February. Lewis expressed how important these issues are and he will keep using his platform to speak about them. Furthermore, he expresses how we still have a long way to go and that there are still issues.
As per SkySports.com, Lewis said “I’m going to continue to be me and continue to fight for things that I am passionate about. I wouldn’t let anybody stop me from doing that.”
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Watch this story: F1 Fans Bash the FIA as Lewis Hamilton Is Now Forbidden From Donning His Jewelry
What is your take on this? Is Coulthard right in siding with the FIA rather than siding with the drivers?