Formula 1 is a global sport in which people from all countries and ethnicities tune in for the racing action on the weekend. It provides a huge platform that reaches almost all parts of the globe. The mega superstar of F1, Lewis Hamilton comprehends this privilege from day one.

The Mercedes driver has not always found it easy to exist in this dog-eat-dog competition. He recently was a target of a racial slur by the former world champion, Nelson Piquet. Yet, Hamilton always has his head high and lets his on-track driving do the talking.

Off-track, he is at the heart of multiple movements to show his support against racism. In 2020, he remained adamant about taking the knee before the Austin GP. He reflected on this action while referring to former NFL Quarterback, Colin Kaepernick.

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He said “This started with NFL player Colin Kaepernick,”. He sat down for the US national anthem. He sat down and received a backlash. It was suggested to him to take a knee. It was a powerful statement but he lost his job and never got it back.”

“I spoke to him before the [2017] US Grand Prix and I had a helmet made in red with his number on the top. But I was silenced and told to back down. I supported that decision which I regret. So it was important for me to make sure I played my part this time.”

Lewis Hamilton’s message for athletes against taking a knee

The seven-time world champion has made a note of being outspoken against societal injustices. When F1 returned after the pandemic, he was true in his belief and understood the part he had to play in this movement. With no hesitation, he put on the ‘Black Lives Matter’ t-shirt ahead of the Grand Prix and led from the front.

14 other drivers from different teams sported the ‘End Racism’ t-shirts to stand alongside him. However, Red Bull driver, Max Verstappen, and Ferrari driver, Charles Leclerc refused to take a knee. Hamilton respected their belief but did not let the action of his fellow drivers hold him back from highlighting the cause.

The Briton commented “Nobody should be forced into a scenario where they have to kneel. I never requested or demanded for anyone to take a knee. I never brought it up.”

“There has been awareness on the subject over the last few weeks and we don’t need it to die a silent death and see no change. I can be the guinea pig and keep speaking out. All of us, myself included, we have to be accountable.”

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“I don’t want it to be a case of people feeling forced. I want people to be excited to be a part of the change. I want people to think that while they are fortunate not to have experienced racism, they can try to understand what it feels like and that they don’t want people to feel that way and want to be part of change so in the future our kids can lead a better quality of life.” he concluded.

As a voice that finds plenty of ears in all parts of the globe, Hamilton is doing his part to make sure he raises it for the most important of issues.