Sir Lewis Hamilton says ‘change is still needed’ within F1 as he reaffirms intent to fight for equality
The new Formula One season is set to begin next month
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir Lewis Hamilton has said “inequities” continue to plague Formula One and that he will demand change for as long as he has air in his lungs.
Hamilton, who will soon be bidding for an unprecedented eighth world championship in what could be his final season in the sport, won last year’s title against the backdrop of his personal fight against racial injustices.
He persuaded his Mercedes team to paint their cars black in a defiant message against racism, and also took the knee before all of last year’s grands prix.
F1 announced earlier this month that a moment of reflection will be included before the start of every race in a display of the sport’s “united support for important issues”.
Posting to his Instagram account on Friday, Hamilton, 36, wrote: “Last year some of us took a knee in support of equality which I am proud of.
“My question is, what’s next? The inequities within our sport and within the world persist. Change is still needed. We must keep pushing to hold ourselves and others accountable. We have to keep striving for equality for all, in order to continue to see true and lasting change in our world.
“As long as I have air in my lungs, I will continue to fight for change in everything I do.”
Last year, the British driver established the Hamilton Commission which aims to improve diversity in motorsport. His former McLaren boss, Martin Whitmarsh, is on a 14-strong board who are due to return their findings later in the year.
In his social media post, Hamilton, who remains the sport’s sole black driver, added: “I will work to create pathways and opportunities for kids of colour, within sciences, engineering and creative disciplines.
“Let’s keep pushing. What are you committed to?”
Hamilton will take the wraps off the Mercedes he hopes will fire him to a record-breaking eighth title at the team’s 2021 launch on Tuesday.
The new season starts in Bahrain on March 28.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments