Dismissing “Nerve-Wracking” Episode, Lewis Hamilton Rebels for LGBTQ+ Rights in Qatar

Lewis Hamilton has been a harbinger of inclusivity in Formula 1. From starting the ‘Hamilton Commission’ to revolutionize minority representation to being a lone ranger when speaking about the rights of LGBTQ+ people. He has been exceptionally vocal about human rights, even in places that shun a particular faction of society.

In recent years, F1 has pushed for more inclusivity and diversity. The 20 drivers that race on Sundays have different cultural heritage and identities which they often choose to express by making artistic changes in their race suits and mostly crash helmets. Hamilton is one such driver whose self-expression is beyond cultural rights and extends to the ‘love is love’ motto. Don’t be surprised to find Hamilton clad in a rainbow helmet during the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton feels responsible for including everyone on his platform

It is a well-known fact that people belonging to the LGBTQ+ community are persecuted in Qatar. Going to a country and challenging their laws is a difficult and fraught experience. Despite that, the seven-time world champion feels that it is important to take the opportunity. He debuted a rainbow helmet in the first-ever Qatar Grand Prix to get his point across the mediums. He is more than happy to do the same on the Lusail International Circuit this year.

“In 2021 it was nerve-wracking,” Hamilton confessed. Adding to it he told the media, “I didn’t know how the country would react. But it was amazing when I do meet people who are incredibly grateful for utilizing the platform for something like that so they feel included.” The crash helmet sparked a lot of reactions in the community. Some hated it, most praised the Briton’s use of the platform.  

Hamilton confessed, “As a sport we have to continue to work on our inclusivity. Diversity continues to be an issue.” If the British driver does good with his platform off-grid, he does even better on-grid. During the first-ever Qatar Grand Prix in 2021, where teams were complaining of damage to their cars due to kerbs, Hamilton emerged victorious.

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The story so far in the Qatar Grand Prix saga

The Mercedes driver started on pole position during the 2021 Qatar Grand Prix. Setting the fastest lap he led going into every chicane. He led all the 57 race laps and earned himself a much-deserved victory in Formula 1. However, Max Verstappen denied the Hamilton a grand slam by setting the fastest lap in the 57th lap of the race itself. The Red Bull driver finished P2 followed by Fernando Alonso in P3.

On a track that largely remains untouched, watching the teams improve with every lap would add to the otherwise ‘boring’ season. The circuit has been redesigned after missing the 2022 season due to the FIFA World Cup held in Qatar. Max Verstappen is set to take his third championship during the sprint race on Saturday, making him only the second driver to do so.

A lot of seconds are coming in this weekend with the Qatar Grand Prix being held for the second time ever. Hamilton voicing his views on LGBTQ+ on this circuit would also be a second.

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Although it would take generations to bring about a substantial change, Lewis Hamilton remains unbothered. He has a strong belief in treating people with kindness and, therefore, leaves no stone unturned. He provides political or financial aid whenever required and puts on a rainbow helmet if need be.