Mercedes’ new F1 livery for the 2020 season has been launched and it is black in colour, in support of the ‘black lives matter’ movement.
Mercedes’ message to end racism
Mercedes has traditionally raced in silver throughout its time in F1, but will drive this version of W11 for the entire 2020 season. The car will run with ‘End Racism’ written on the Halo, a recently added feature in F1 cars.
Drivers Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas will also adjust their helmet designs accordingly to the new color scheme.
Mercedes also confirmed it will launch a new diversity programme this season to address the issue within the team. This is significant as just 3% of its workforce are from a minority ethnic group.
“Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, our sport or our team: this is a core belief at Mercedes. But having the right beliefs and the right mindset isn’t enough if we remain silent,” said team principal Toto Wolff.
“We wish to use our voice and our global platform to speak up for respect and equality, and the Silver Arrow will race in black for the entire 2020 season to show our commitment to greater diversity within our team and our sport.
“We will not shy away from our weaknesses in this area, nor from the progress we must still make; our livery is our public pledge to take positive action.
“We intend to find and attract the very best talents from the broadest possible range of backgrounds, and to create credible pathways for them to reach our sport, in order to build a stronger and more diverse team in the future.”
Hamilton has campaigned strongly for diversity in F1
Lewis Hamilton – the only black driver in F1 history – has called on the F1 community to do more for the minority.
He has announced plans for a commission aimed at improving diversity within motorsport.
“It’s so important that we seize this moment and use it to educate ourselves whether you are an individual, brand or company to make real meaningful changes when it comes to ensuring equality and inclusivity,” Hamilton said.
“I have personally experienced racism in my life and seen my family and friends experience racism, and I am speaking from the heart when I appeal for change.
“When I spoke to Toto about my hopes for what we could achieve as a team, I said it was so important that we stand united.
“We want to build a legacy that goes beyond sport, and if we can be the leaders and can start building more diversity within our own business, it will send such a strong message and give others the confidence to begin a dialogue about how they can implement change.”
Mercedes is the second team after Williams to make a late change to its livery ahead of the season starter this weekend. Williams unveiled its new look last Friday after splitting with title sponsor ROKiT in May, 2020.
