The racing world isn’t a stranger to controversies, but this one stings, especially given F1’s recent pushes for inclusivity and anti-discrimination. Helmut Marko, made discriminatory comments attributing Sergio Perez’s inconsistent form to his ethnic background. Despite hailing from Guadalajara, North America, Marko labeled Perez as South American, alleging that his inconsistent performance was linked to his ethnicity. However, amidst the uproar, a surprising voice was missing – that of F1’s most vocal advocate for equality, Lewis Hamilton. This absence hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans, leading many to question, “Where is Hamilton in all of this?”
While the motorsport world reeled from these comments, there was a conspicuous silence from certain quarters – most notably Lewis Hamilton. And the apology hasn’t quelled the storm. Fans and critics expected immediate condemnation, and many eyes turned to Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton, known not just for his on-track exploits but for championing racial equality and diversity off it, has remained quiet. Given his strong advocacy in recent times, especially his support for the Black Lives Matter movement and his commitment to the Mission 44 foundation, fans expected him to speak out against such blatant discriminatory remarks. “Where is Hamilton in all of this?” Echoed a significant section of the fanbase. This silence baffled many, leading to a barrage of questions aimed at Hamilton.
Where is Hamilton in all of this? He has the power to put a stop to all of this given his work within F1 against discriminatory and racist policies.
— Pete Klaput (@pklaput) September 8, 2023
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To be specific, Marko stated, “We know that he has problems in qualifying, he has fluctuations in form, he is South American, and he is just not as completely focused in his head as Max Verstappen is or as Sebastian Vettel.” These comments, drawing a connection between Perez’s performance and his South American heritage, were deemed not only offensive but also deeply ignorant and prejudiced.
Marko’s attempts at clarification only added fuel to the fire, Marko stated, “I do not believe that we can generalize about the people from any country, any race, any ethnicity,” the damage, for many, had been done. The Mexican GP organizers were quick to stand by Perez, emphasizing the need for respect and unity within the F1 community. Various publications called out the need for change, emphasizing that Perez and other drivers “deserve better.”
Fanning the Flames
The digital age has given fans an unprecedented voice. Social platforms became the battlegrounds of discussions and debates post-Marko’s remarks. With Hamilton being such a pronounced figure in the fight against discrimination, fans’ expectations for his response were evident. The real-time global sentiment was predominantly of disappointment and confusion. While Marko’s comments ignited the flame, the fan reactions have stoked it further.
You really think Hamilton’s interested in this? That’s a gullible take. He can’t make profit of this other than pissing off the RB.
— Andrew Bettenhausen (@waruun73) September 8, 2023
Just pointing out hypocrisy my friend.
— Pete Klaput (@pklaput) September 8, 2023
Why are you looking for his comment before checo’s employer? Don’t you think that should be the first step? Then his boss? His teammate. The expectation that lewis should say things shows that everyone wants to hear what he says rather than the real issue here.
— manu_f144 (@manu_dreamer23) September 8, 2023
While some fans expressed expecting Lewis to address every blunder is unfair.
Lewis Hamilton – part time racing driver and full time regulator to make sure the Red Bull bosses don’t say anything racist on a daily basis 🤡🤡 https://t.co/uplWqUf88F
— Arush Senanayake (@ArushSenanayake) September 9, 2023
Where was Hamilton during the great fire of London 🤡🤡🤡 https://t.co/VJlqOv8iL0 pic.twitter.com/ejnwpymLIC
— 🇬🇧🇹🇷 (@mehmetmsf1) September 8, 2023
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Where was Lewis Hamilton when Thanos acquired all the Infinity Stones!? https://t.co/bio0dATzBK
— Mercedes-AMG-Sweden🇸🇪 (@Lewissweden) September 8, 2023
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What do you think is it fair to drag Lewis Hamilton into this, while there is champion in RedBull, who hasn’t spoken?
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