Home/F1

via Reuters

via Reuters

The year is 2022 and Lewis Hamilton has pretty much been focused, desperately seeking a way past Mercedes’ unfortunate collapse. But has this ever been the case in the past? Certainly not!

The seven-time world champion was far from silent when it came to social matters that had blown out of proportion across the world. And of course, quite unsurprisingly, his comments would often lead to an equal share of support and controversy, making him one of the most trending athletes.

via Reuters

Here’s one such controversy that even blew up to an unimaginable level at one point in 2017. It was the Malaysian Grand Prix weekend, and as always, the British star was highly active on social media. Simultaneously, there was also a storm brewing in the United States; NFL stars had apparently taken a knee during their national anthem to protest against racial injustice.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Watch This Story: Ugliest Moments in Hamilton-Rosberg Rivalry

Unfortunately, the then-American president, Donald Trump, was barely a fan of such demonstrations and, hence, publicly opposed the actions that unfolded in the NFL. This ended up provoking Hamilton, who, in return, shared a rather hilarious yet insulting video on Instagram.

The infamous Lewis Hamilton post feat. Donald Trump

Wondering what the video was about? It portrayed a small dog ‘humping’ a Donald Trump doll. However, after quite a while, the video disappeared. Turns out, Mercedes had to intervene and demand the seven-time world champion remove the post.

I did not and I would not have removed it,” Hamilton told Sky Italia according to Express.

Furthermore, Mercedes F1 boss, Toto Wolff, admitted that it was a joint decision to remove the post as such off-track antics could well have an impact on Hamilton’s chances of racing in Texas.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

via Reuters

This is a very controversial and polarising story. I wouldn’t want to get involved in politics,” he said. “Lewis’s feelings about human rights are very strong. And I think he wanted to show that and probably Instagram as the communication channel is something that he needs to rethink. But I can relate to his feelings.

Read More: “A Shame He Didn’t Stop at His Peak”: Lewis Hamilton Asked to Step Down Amid Growing F1 Struggles

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

I think one of the most important things in the US is that you have the right to express your opinion. And I would want to leave it there.

Overall, this was indeed one of Hamilton’s most controversial incidents. But, let’s hear from you; Has Hamilton ever stirred up a controversy bigger than this?