F1 Live stream:Hamilton Accuses FIA Chief Ben Sulayem of Racially…read more
Lewis Hamilton has publicly criticized FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem for what he described as racially charged language during a discussion about the behavior of Formula 1 drivers. The seven-time world champion pointed to Ben Sulayem’s comments comparing Formula 1 to rap music as stereotypical and inappropriate.
In his remarks, Ben Sulayem stated that Formula 1 needed to “differentiate between our sport – motorsport – and rap music,” suggesting that swearing from drivers during broadcasts needed to be curbed. Hamilton took issue with the reference to rap, noting that the genre is predominantly associated with Black artists, and that the comments carried a racial undertone.
“Saying ‘rappers’ is very stereotypical. If you think about it, most rappers are Black,” Hamilton said. “So when it says: ‘We are not like them,’ those are the wrong choice of words. There is a racial element there.”
The exchange highlights ongoing conversations within the sport regarding diversity and inclusion, an area where Hamilton has been a vocal advocate throughout his career. While Ben Sulayem’s remarks were framed around maintaining professionalism in Formula 1, Hamilton emphasized the need for more sensitivity in language, especially when it comes to race and cultural stereotypes.
The FIA has yet to issue an official response to Hamilton’s criticism. However, the incident has reignited discussions about the sport’s role in promoting inclusivity, a topic that has gained significant traction in recent years.
