Lewis Hamilton recalled the rainbow-liveried crash helmet he wore in the Qatar GP two years ago as he shared his thoughts on numerous significant events during his tenure with Mercedes.
The Mercedes driver has been a strong advocate for diversity and equality in Formula 1 and in society at large, sparking the sport’s own thoughts on the issue and resulting in the implementation of several measures.
In recent years, the British racing legend has taken a stand and protested using his position on a large global platform. He initiated the push for drivers to kneel in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and the struggle for equality. He has also been outspoken in an effort to speak out against human rights abuses, notably in Middle Eastern nations like Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
While Hamilton wore a variety of various protest t-shirts at #WeRaceAsOne moments before the 2020 and 2021 Formula One Grand Prixs, one incident occurred at the Qatar GP when he participated wearing a rainbow-liveried helmet design.
What did Lewis Hamilton say about the rainbow-liveried helmet?
In a video celebrating the driver’s 10 year anniversary with Mercedes, Hamilton said, “For me, it is mindblowing that we live in a time still where there are so many countries around the world but particularly… there are a lot of human rights issues in the Middle East. Women’s rights, LGBT rights – there are laws that restrict people from being their true selves.”
“I have always been a risk taker. ‘I am going to do this whether or not they throw me in jail, I don’t care what they are going to do, I am going to stand for something I believe in even if it kills me’.”
He also added how he felt it was very important for him to take this risk.
“I know it sounds crazy but like, I need to do this to show people how important it is and spark those conversations out there, put those in power on edge, and feel like they need to have conversations about making change because it brings negativity to their country. I did it and I won the race. My drive was like ‘I have got to get to the top of the podium because then that will make the biggest bang’ and I did.”
What next for Mercedes and Hamilton?
In the same video uploaded to Mercedes’ YouTube channel, Hamilton reviews some of the relationship’s best moments. He also gives viewers a glimpse into specific events. One of how his father Anthony thought switching from McLaren to Mercedes was the wrong move. Another was about his chaotic relationship with Niki Lauda.
As they celebrate their 10 year anniversary, rumors of a split are becoming more strong. There is a possibility that Lewis, whose contract with Mercedes expires this summer could leave for another team. Both parties are still negotiating a new deal and hope to finalize it soon.
The British driver’s season has gotten off to a rough start as they are still behind Red Bull and other rivals. Mercedes has attempted to close the gap but Red Bull is currently unstoppable. Hamilton is aiming to contend for a top-three finish in Baku later this month after finishing third at the Australian Grand Prix in the previous race.
