Lewis Hamilton says ‘nothing will stop him’ from speaking out on political issues, following new FIA rules
Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton says there is “nothing stopping him” from speaking his mind when it comes to his personal beliefs. This happened after the International Automobile Federation (FIA) new rules introduced in December 2022, which limit drivers’ ability to make “political, religious and personal statements” while racing.
“Nothing will stop me from talking about things I’m passionate about” Hamilton said during a speech at the presentation of the Mercedes 2023 F1 car. “Sport has a responsibility to speak up and raise awareness on important topics, especially when we travel to different places. So nothing changes.”
In December, the FIA amended its International Sports Code and banned the publication of political, religious and personal statements unless approved in writing by the governing body. Drivers who do not comply with the new rules will be subject to financial sanctions as well as fines on the track.
In the past, the seven-time world champion has spoken out about issues of social justice. While competing in the 2020 Tuscany Grand Prix, Hamilton wore a black T-shirt with “Arrest the cops who killed Breonna Taylor” written on the front.
Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton wore this jersey during his victory at the Tuscany Grand Prix on Sunday when he was 6 months old. #BreonnaTaylor was killed by the police.
He said: “Someone was killed in her own house. And these guys are still roaming free.” pic.twitter.com/KIerOZswWF
— AJ+ (@ajplus) September 14, 2020
In addition, Hamilton raced in the Middle East and wore a rainbow helmet to show his support for the LGBTQIA+ community in Qatar.
“I will still be giving my opinion and since we still have this platform, we still have a lot of things to decide,” Hamilton added.
The 2023 Formula 1 season kicks off on March 5 in Bahrain.
Source: www.cbssports.com
