Nelson Piquet was last Formula 1 World Champion in 1987. Almost 25 years later, the Brazilian is back in the headlines.
After Nelson Piquet’s racist derailment, world champion Max Verstappen spoke out against banning the ex-champion from Formula 1. “A ban doesn’t help anyone, you have to talk, that’s really important. You shouldn’t be banned from the paddock, especially not a three-time world champion,” said the Red Bull driver at Silverstone on Thursday.
Verstappen is in a relationship with Piquet’s daughter Kelly. “I’ve spent a lot of time with Nelson. He’s not a racist, he’s a nice and relaxed guy,” said the 24-year-old.
“Everyone is against racism”
Shortly before the British Grand Prix on Sunday, older statements by Piquet (69) appeared in which he had denigrated Lewis Hamilton. The Brazilian has since denied a racist background to his words. Formula 1, the world association Fia and a number of drivers and teams jumped to Hamilton’s side.
Verstappen also emphasized that Piquet’s choice of words was “incorrect”. “Everyone is against racism. It’s a lesson not to use such words,” said the Dutchman. Hamilton has his respect like any other driver. He also supports the Formula 1 and Fia initiatives against discrimination.
But it’s not up to him to talk to Piquet about it. He knew himself that his behavior was wrong.