Lewis Hamilton and F1 drivers to take knee in support of Black Lives Matter before Austria GP with new suits unveiled
LEWIS HAMILTON and his fellow Formula One drivers will take a knee in support of Black Lives Matter before the Austria Grand Prix, according to reports.
The 2020 season finally begins this weekend – and drivers will follow football’s lead in taking a knee before the race, say Sky Sports.
Hamilton, 35, has been a strong supporter of the Black Lives Movement in recent weeks.
Since the death of George Floyd in the US, the six-time world champion has been seen marching in Hyde Park, London – where he revealed his pride.
In an Instagram post, he wrote: “Went down to Hyde Park today for the peaceful protest…
“I was so proud to see in person so many people of all races and backgrounds supporting this movement.
“I was proud to be out there acknowledging and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, and my black heritage.
“I was so happy to see people of all ages, sporting Black Lives Matter signs and saying it just as passionately as I was.
“I was also happy to see so many white supporters out there today in the name of equality for all.
“It was really moving. I’m feeling extremely positive that change will come, but we cannot stop now. Keep pushing.”
Fellow British F1 star Lando Norris recently spoke out about the prospect of taking a knee.
Norris revealed: “Some of the drivers have already been speaking it.
“If we are going to do it, we should all do it as a grid.
“It will be discussed following the drivers’ briefing with the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association on Friday.
“We will do whatever we can to show that we care and respect everyone.
“We will do what is right when the time comes.'”
The news comes on the same day as Mercedes revealed their brand new, all-black race suits for Hamilton and Bottas.
Earlier this week, the team showed off their all-black livery for their car – also looking into a diversity scheme within the company.
After the “Silver Arrows” went against tradition and showed off their new black cars and race suits, Hamilton praised team boss Toto Wolff.
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Hamilton said: “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.
“I would like to say a huge thank you to Toto and the board for taking the time to listen, to talk, and to really understand my experiences and passion, and for making this important statement that we are willing to change and improve as a business.
“It’s so important that we seize this moment and use it to educate ourselves to make real meaningful changes to ensure equality and inclusivity.
“I have experienced racism in my life and seen my family and friends experience racism, and I am speaking from the heart.
“We want to build a legacy that goes beyond sport.”