“It’s Always Lewis Hamilton”: Susie Wolff Ignores George Russell’s Noble Move to Expose F1’s Ugly Reality

Lewis Hamilton is hailed by many to be one of the greatest ambassadors for F1. His widespread success in not just the sport but in every venture he begins has not come easy. As the only ever Black driver, Hamilton has faced adversity at every corner and still does to this day. But like his motto says, ‘Still I Rise’. Reflecting on the off-track struggles he had to face owing to his skin colour, the seven-time world champion has led many campaigns against discrimination and has worked tirelessly to promote diversity in the sport.

Whether through the Hamilton Commission or by demanding new F1 teams bring in diversity, the Brit has been the most outspoken entity on the grid when inclusion is considered. His efforts have inspired one man on the grid. Joining hands with Hamilton was George Russell, as they set out to promote the F1 Academy during the US GP weekend. However, Russell’s noble gesture failed to leave a lasting impression on the woman behind it all.

Susie Wolff says support from Lewis Hamilton isn’t enough

The Mercedes duo showed their heartfelt support for F1 Academy – a female single-seater championship – before the series’ final race. But the Academy’s boss wasn’t as pleased as Mercedes fans were. Susie Wolff couldn’t help but glance over the fact that, at least, the seven-time world champion wasn’t alone in showing support.

In an F1 TV interview, Susie Wolff was asked about her opinion on the support she was receiving with her long-term project, especially from Hamilton. While she commended Mercedes’ Golden Boy for his constant involvement, she couldn’t help but feel a little upset. She explained, “It’s a little bit sad that it’s always Lewis, he’s always the one offering support, coming over, he knows what it’s like to be the only one and so he has an affinity.”

Even though George Russell shared a picture of him with the F1 Academy stars, there was no mention of the young Brit by Wolff. She was quick to point out that the only person on the paddock who understood their struggle was Lewis Hamilton. But it would be better if there is support from more drivers and teams in the coming races.

READ MORE: “Courageous” Jessica Hawkins Shuts Danica Patrick’s Sexism to Follow in Susie Wolff’s Footsteps

As the F1 Academy season draws to a close, Hamilton provided a platform to the talented women on his Instagram, to share who they are and what their favorite moment was. In contrast, Russell shared a photo along with a request for fans to tune in for the F1 Academy finale.

Do F1 teams disagree with Susie Wolff’s vision for the future?

Wolff has been vocal about her disapproval of the paddock’s lack of support towards her cause. However, Aston Martin and McLaren’s recent efforts in promoting women in Formula 1 say otherwise. Earlier this season, Aston Martin provided the opportunity of a lifetime to their driver ambassador – Jessica Hawkins. She made her F1 test debut in Budapest, following in Susie Wolff’s footsteps. The 28-year-old is a big reason Aston Martin is looking to make an entry in the F1 Academy in 2024.

So it’s fair to say that teams are moving towards inclusion the way Wolff would want. To add to the list of supporters, McLaren has made their bid by signing F1 Academy Star, Bianca Bustamante. The Philippines native even teared up in an Instagram post when she received her first McLaren threads.

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However, Susie Wolff’s point still stands, as only 2 teams and 2 drivers out of the grid have made any significant stride toward Wolff’s noble cause. Will Formula 1 teams step up to her call? If McLaren and Aston Martin are good examples of what’s to come!