Seven-time world champion and Mercedes superstar Lewis Hamilton has been an advocate for human rights and social issues for a good few years now, using his popularity and reach to raise awareness about crucial social issues plaguing the world.
Recently, Lewis had praised and stood by Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr., who had been the victim of racial abuse by Real Madrid fans. The Brazillian had recently posted on social media, condemning the racist statements hurled at him.
Lewis Hamilton reveals Vini Jr. support
Brazillian winger and Real Madrid rising star Vincius Jr. was recently faced with racial abuse and racist comments from La Liga fans in a match against Valencia. Vinicius has been the victim of such comments before, and recently posted on social media, criticising La Liga.
In his post, he wrote, “It wasn’t the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in La Liga. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano and Messi today belongs to racists.”
Lewis condemned the racism against Vinicius ahead of the Monaco GP, and went on to describe his own experience with racism, as the first black driver in Formula 1.
Hamilton condemned racism against the Real Madrid star
Lewis Hamilton condemned the racism against Vinicius Jr., saying, “It can be so hurtful the things that people say. Firstly, I think he’s [Vinícius Jr.] been incredibly brave. I think it’s amazing what so many of these [athletes] that are experiencing that on the pitch are doing in terms of standing tall and standing strong.”
He continued, “There is no room for discrimination, I think, in society today. Sports need to do more, we all need to continue to do more. If we see it, hear it – we need to do something about it.”
Lewis Hamilton went on to reveal his own experience against racism in Formula 1, saying, “It really hits home for me; it really brings up emotions, things that I experienced – whether it was back in the UK, or whether it was when I was racing in Italy, or France, or Spain.”
He continued, “It really hits home for me; it really brings up emotions, things that I experienced – whether it was back in the UK, or whether it was when I was racing in Italy, or France, or Spain.”
What do you think about these statements by Lewis Hamilton? How can Formula 1 contribute more to ending racism in the sport? Comment what you think down below!
