Lewis Hamilton is a seven-time world champion and has always used his platform to advocate for environmental causes. He has also spoken out against racism and the issue of inclusivity in the sport of Formula 1.
In 2021, after the Black Lives Matter protests, Hamilton started Mission 44 to improve diversity in F1 and motorsports. He invested £20 million in the project. Mission 44 is aimed at improving education and opportunities for black students in the UK, as well as improving diversity and representation in motorsports.
What is Lewis Hamilton’s Mission 44 initiative?
Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, made this landmark move in 2021 when he set up Mission 44 – a charitable organization dedicated to ensuring equality and inclusivity for minorities in F1.
Through this foundation, he is striving to create a world in which every young person has the opportunity to thrive. Offering doors to careers within STEM, motorsport, and the creative industries, as well as building the confidence and resilience of young people so that they can become an influential force for change. In its first year, Mission 44 has already supported more than 100 projects and organizations, reaching over 10,000 young people.
When asked about the initiative, Lewis had this to say: “In my early life, I experienced first-hand how coming from an underrepresented background can affect your future but, luckily for me, I was able to overcome those odds through opportunity and support. I want to ensure that other young people from similar backgrounds are able to do the same.”
Lewis Hamilton unhappy with FIA
Lewis Hamilton has conceded he is ‘not surprised’ by a lack of inclusivity within the FIA’s regulatory framework.
In recent years, the seven-time champion has been a beacon of hope in F1 and motorsport, advocating for diversity and inclusivity, which has resulted in multiple projects from himself, his Mercedes team, F1, and the FIA.
Lewis Hamilton expressed his disappointment when he found that the regulations still refer to the drivers as ‘he’ in the regulatory framework. Which he feels is in contrast to the FIM and MotoGP, where the rulebook uses the term ‘rider’ to be more gender inclusive.
He further added, “It doesn’t surprise me. It has been only men in the room since I’ve been here, and not enough importance has been placed on making the changes.”
What do you think about the noble Mission 44 started by Lewis Hamilton? Also, do let us know your views on the rule book issue in the comments section below.
