Hamilton’s rivals speak out over Piquet’s racist comment · RaceFans

Several of Lewis Hamilton’s rivals have spoken up in support of him on social media after one of his fellow Formula 1 champions referring to him using a racist expression.

Formula 1 and the FIA condemned the language used by Nelson Piquet to describe Hamilton in a recording made late last year which recently gained wider attention.

Alpine driver Esteban Ocon said “enough is enough” and stressed racist language “has absolutely no part in our sport and our society.” Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc said others should treat Hamilton in the same “extremely respectful” manner he adopts towards people.

McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo praised Hamilton for “all the work he has done both on and off the track to not only spread messages of equality but combat that hate.”

“Each time his response to the hate is motivated by maturity, positivity and educating the world on how we should act,” Ricciardo added.

George Russell was the first to speak up in support of his Mercedes team mate. “The fact that he and so many others are still having to deal with this behaviour is unacceptable,” he said. “We all need to stand together against discrimination of any kind.”

Several teams including Ferrari, McLaren, Aston Martin and Haas also shared expressions of support for Hamilton.

F1 drivers respond to Piquet’s racist comment on Hamilton

All racist or discriminatory language has absolutely no part in our sport and our society. Enough is enough.

I’ve worked and spent time with Lewis over the years and know the kind of person he is. Always genuine and respectful with everyone around him. He has done so much for F1, on and off track, and we are proud to have him at the forefront of our fight for further diversity and inclusion in motorsport.

I stand with Lewis and his continued efforts to make the sport we love a better place for all.
Esteban Ocon

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Discrimination and racism has no place in this sport or our society Those who still choose to spread hate and use those words are no friends of mine. I want to acknowledge Lewis and all the work he has done both on and off the track to not only spread messages of equality but combat that hate.

I’ve never dealt with any racially motivated actions, but he has for his entire life. Yet each time his response to the hate is motivated by maturity, positivity and educating the world on how we should act.

I stand with him and will do whatever I can to follow and support.
Daniel…