Breaking News: Lewis Hamilton has called out FIA …read more
Lewis Hamilton has called out FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem for using what he described as “stereotypical” language with a “racial undertone” in his comments about reducing swearing during Formula 1 broadcasts. Ben Sulayem had stated that F1 should “distinguish between our sport—motorsport—and rap music.”
Hamilton, known for advocating diversity and inclusion, criticized the remark, saying, “Mentioning ‘rappers’ in this context is stereotypical. Many rappers are Black, so when the phrase ‘We are not like them’ is used, it reflects a poor choice of words with racial implications.” He stressed that such language can reinforce harmful stereotypes and that care is needed to avoid offending people.
Hamilton’s response fits within his broader mission to combat racial stereotypes and push for greater inclusivity in Formula 1, a sport that has faced criticism for its lack of diversity. His comments bring attention to how language can unintentionally perpetuate bias, especially in a global sport like F1.