Report: Lewis Hamilton & Other F1 Drivers Aimed to ‘Boycott’ Saudi Arabian GP

Formula One is set to race in Saudi Arabia this weekend. However, things gave been quite certain as there have been a lot of reports swirling since yesterday that the qualifying and the race might not go ahead after the explosion in a nearby Aramco oil factory.

The drivers, team principals, FIA, and F1 CEO had a meeting until 3 am this morning to discuss the safety aspects. Moreover, It was reported that a few drivers including Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, and Fernando Alonso have shared their concerns and were in favor of not racing this weekend.

The Tweet from Motorsport.com Türkiye reads, “According to sources at the paddock, a group including 🇬🇧 Hamilton, 🇬🇧 Russell and 🇪🇦 Alonso expressed concern about the conditions after yesterday’s events and their aim was to boycott the race.”

It is still unclear which other drivers shared the same views as Hamilton, Russell, and Alonso. But it is indeed a huge statement as 3 of the most prominent drivers are ready to boycott the race.

Will we race in Jeddah after Lewis Hamilton and George Russell aim to boycott?

We have not yet gotten any official statements from the drivers, teams, or F1. The FIA may put out an official statement regarding the events and the subject discussed in the meetings. The drivers’ boycott might go in vain, as it looks like we might continue racing in Jeddah.

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The safety concerns for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix have been ongoing throughout the week. There was a massive outcry from the fans to boycott the race last week citing geopolitical issues in the country.

According to Bild, former F1 driver and Sky Sports commentator Ralf Schumacher shared that he left Saudi Arabia. The Sky Germany pundit took to social media to share a picture of the airport.

 “Off to Munich, if we’re on time, it should still work out with FP3,” wrote Schumacher. Fellow commentator Sascha Roos also left with the former Williams driver, who hopes to watch FP3 from Germany.

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This is indeed an unprecedented situation for the sport, as we have seen nothing like this before. Hopefully, by putting out an official statement, FIA can reassure its fans and the drivers of their safety. But there may be a few more meetings that the governing body might need to have with the drivers and teams.