Formula 1 has released an official statement after footage emerged of Lewis Hamilton being the subject of racist abuse by F1 world champion Nelson Piquet.
The Brazilian, 69, won three world titles in F1, in 1981, 1983 and 1987. His son, Nelson Piquet Jr, had a short spell in the sport with Renault between 2008 and 2009.
In November, Piquet Sr gave his views on the incident between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen at Silverstone last year.
Piquet Sr criticised Hamilton for the incident, before then referring to him by using a racially offensive term on two occasions.
Hamilton and Verstappen collided at Copse on the first lap. The Dutchman was forced to retire as a result of crash damage, whilst Hamilton was given a 10-second time penalty. The Brit then eventually went on to win the race, overtaking Charles Leclerc with three laps remaining.
After the race, Red Bull then tried to get a harsher sanction applied to Hamilton. In addition, they infamously sent test driver Alex Albon to Silverstone to collect further evidence. Ultimately, however, their protests failed.
F1, Mercedes release statement following Hamilton abuse
Hamilton’s current team, Mercedes, and F1 themselves, were both quick to condemn the three-time world champion following his discriminatory comments.
F1 stated: “Discriminatory or racist language is unacceptable in any form and has no part in society.
“Lewis is an incredible ambassador for our sport and deserves respect. His tireless efforts to increase diversity and inclusion are a lesson to many and something we are committed to at F1.”
Mercedes, meanwhile, wrote: “We condemn, in the strongest terms, any use of racist or discriminatory language of any kind.
“Lewis has spearheaded our sport’s efforts to combat racism, and he is a true champion of diversity on and off track.
“Together, we share a vision for a diverse and inclusive motorsport, and this incident underlines the fundamental importance of continuing to strive for a brighter future.”
The sport’s governing body, the FIA, also released their own response: “The FIA strongly condemns any racist or discriminatory language or behaviour, which have no place in sport or wider society.
“We express our solidarity with Lewis Hamilton and fully support his commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in motor sport.”
Featured Image Credit: Getty