Lewis Hamilton has always been one of the most outspoken drivers in Formula 1. He uses the sport and his status as an all-time great as a platform to highlight the various issues that plague society. Over the last few years, he has been very vocal about LGBTQ+ rights and is also a huge advocate of the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement.
However, ahead of the 2023 season, the FIA released new rules that prohibit a driver from making the beforementioned comments in the sport. The law bans everyone associated with the sport from making any non-neutral “political, religious or personal” statements or comments without prior permission.
As we continue through the year I can definitely feel the slowing in momentum of BLM. I won’t stop trying to push for change. Awareness is where that starts so you’ll see me there each weekend representing. #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/8svbrHoGqI
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) November 3, 2020
Hamilton, however, does not care about the new rules. He insisted that he will continue to protest about these issues, because he is someone who a lot of people look up to. To set an example, Hamilton will keep protesting, even if it leads to him getting penalized.
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Lewis Hamilton is ready to ‘risk it all’ to show support
Hamilton wants people who are oppressed and affected by various problems to know that he cares. Drivers are supposed to get prior permission from the FIA before taking as stand from 2023 onwards, but Hamilton won’t bat an eye if he gets punished.
In fact, he added that he is willing to sacrifice sponsorship deals in order to maintain his stance.
Lewis Hamilton’s helmet for the Qatar Grand Prix 🌈 pic.twitter.com/82CGTUTvoy
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) November 19, 2021
“I don’t care if sponsors drop me for being outspoken,” he said on the Jay Shetty podcast. “I remember kind of being on my knees. Thinking ‘What is happening in the world?’ I’ve got to be outspoken. I’ve got to take that chance. Because if I don’t do it, then no one’s going to do it.”
“I’m going to do something about it. And I’m going to risk it all. I don’t care if my partners want to drop me because they want to be associated with this narrative. I literally let go of all that fear. That’s why I came so forward with it.”
Hamilton to extend his Mercedes contract?
Hamilton’s contract with Mercedes runs out at the end of the 2023 season. He has been with the Brackley-based outfit since 2013, and has gone on to win seven World Championships with them. Heading into the final year of his current deal, both parties are confident that he will extend his stay beyond this season.
It has been reported that his salary is going to be a whopping $76 million. This would make him the highest paid driver in the sport’s history. On top of that, his role with Mercedes will extend beyond his driving years, as he is set to act as an ambassador for them post retirement.
