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The Brazilian (69) used during a conversation with Motorsports Talk a racist term (“n-word”) to refer to Lewis Hamilton. The subject of conversation was Max Verstappen’s hard crash in Silverstone last year, after the Dutchman was tapped by the Briton. He eventually won the race. Verstappen has a relationship with the daughter of the three-time world champion.
The Formula 1 leadership said in a statement: “Discriminational or racist language in any form is unacceptable and has no place in society. Lewis is an incredible ambassador for our sport and deserves respect. His tireless efforts to increase diversity and inclusion are a lesson to many and something we are committed to in F1.”
Response Mercedes
Mercedes also responds: “We condemn in the strongest terms any use of racist or discriminatory language of any kind. Lewis has been at the forefront of our sport’s efforts to fight racism, and he is a true champion of diversity on and off the track. Together we share a vision for a diverse and inclusive motorsport, and this incident underlines the fundamental importance of continuing to strive for a better future.”
Reaction Hamilton
Hamilton has also responded on Twitter. “It’s more than just using language. These archaic mindsets need to change and have no place in our sport. I’ve been surrounded and a target of these kinds of ‘attitudes’ all my life. There has been plenty of time to learn. It is time for action.”