Formula 1: Hamilton calls for action amid storm over racist Piquet comment; Zhou Guanyu Tweets support for Brit
- Brazilian triple champion used N-word in Portuguese interview when referring to the seven-time world champion
- Piquet’s daughter Kelly is partner of Red Bull driver Max Verstappen
Lewis Hamilton called for action to change “archaic mindsets” after a racist remark about him by Brazilian triple champion Nelson Piquet emerged on social media, triggering widespread condemnation.
In a Brazilian interview on YouTube in November, Piquet, 69, used a racial slur in Portuguese when referring to the seven-time world champion, when commenting on Hamilton’s British Grand Prix crash with Max Verstappen.
He also said Hamilton had “played dirty” in the incident. Piquet’s daughter Kelly is Verstappen’s partner, and the comments resurfaced as the drivers prepare to return to Silverstone this weekend.
Hamilton, who was recently awarded honorary Brazilian citizenship and is the sport’s only Black driver, responded on Twitter.
“It’s more than language. These archaic mindsets need to change and have no place in our sport,” the Mercedes driver said.
“I’ve been surrounded by these attitudes and targeted my whole life. There has been plenty of time to learn. Time has come for action.”