Lewis Hamilton believes that Formula 1 still has progress to make in terms of inclusivity, following Ralf Schumacher’s recent announcement.
While Lewis Hamilton, a very outspoken driver when it comes to diversity and inclusivity, praised Ralf Schumacher for coming out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, the Mercedes driver still says there’s “a long way to go.”
Over the past few years, Lewis Hamilton has been actively using his influence to champion for equality in the motorsport industry, addressing issues related to race, gender, and sexuality. While Ralf Schumacher’s recent announcement is a positive stride in the correct path, Hamilton acknowledges that there is still more progress to be made.
Lewis Hamilton: Saying and being inclusive are two different things
During a media session before the Hungarian Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton responded openly to a reporter who asked about Schumacher’s public revelation, stating that it demonstrates F1’s current climate as an environment where individuals can truly express themselves.
Hamilton expressed his belief that there is still a significant amount of progress needed in terms of inclusivity within the realm of sports.
Stating inclusivity is one matter, but ensuring individuals genuinely feel at ease in such settings is an entirely different aspect.
“To the best of my knowledge, he is one of the few individuals openly addressing the fact that this space is primarily controlled by males.”
“While our team strives to be inclusive, there is still much more that needs to be done within the sport to ensure everyone feels comfortable and women are warmly welcomed. Unfortunately, women have not always been treated well in this space, but we are committed to making positive changes and doing everything we can to improve the situation.”
Hamilton acknowledges the bravery it takes for individuals to come out, but emphasizes that there are numerous obstacles that need to be overcome in order for the sport to achieve genuine inclusivity.
During the later part of the press conference, Hamilton faced inquiries about the specific actions that the sport should undertake in order to enhance accessibility.
He stated that although he couldn’t immediately think of the solutions, he is aware that in many cases, it involves engaging in conversations and dialogues with important individuals.
“It involves evaluating the level of accessibility, gathering insights from individuals who feel included or excluded, and actively participating in the community.”
He proposed the idea of distributing anonymous questionnaires to fans or personnel in the paddock, with the aim of collecting their feedback.
He said that there are numerous possibilities to address the matter, but the first step is acknowledging and discussing it instead of neglecting or placing it at the lowest priority.
Hamilton used the Montreal Grand Prix as an illustrative example, recounting an incident he witnessed this year where a person with disabilities attempted to access a restroom that was being blocked off by the police.
Hamilton stated that he intervened to have a conversation with the officer, and subsequently expressed his desire to engage with race organizers in order to promote the implementation of more inclusive facilities.
More on Ralf Schumacher’s coming out
What Ralf Schumacher’s coming out says about the motorsport landscape
Ralf Schumacher explains decision to come out: ‘I wanted to get the news out myself’
That being said, Hamilton praised Schumacher for taking the step to come out, and elaborated on what that means for the sport as a whole.
According to Hamilton, it is evident that he has not felt at ease expressing it previously. This is certainly not a recent occurrence.
“It signifies that we have reached a point in history where we can confidently take that leap without any apprehension. And ideally, he will confidently state that he has received nothing but favorable responses from individuals involved in F1, thanks to the current era we are living in and the transformations we have undergone.”
In the pre-race driver press conference with Nico Hulkenberg, Oscar Piastri, and Fernando Alonso, all three drivers echoed similar sentiments.
“Obviously, it’s a very personal matter, but I congratulate that,” Hulkenberg said. “And if he’s coming out with that, there’s nothing wrong with that in modern times where diversity and everything is all to play for.
“Hate is a persistent presence in our world, particularly in the realm of online interactions. It is a space where individuals can easily engage in harmful behavior and take advantage of anonymity. This aspect is far from ideal or commendable.”
Apart from that, everything is fine.
Piastri expressed similar feelings, stating, “I believe it’s fantastic that he is at ease with openly revealing his true self. It’s important for our sport to foster inclusivity and create an environment where everyone can feel secure in disclosing their identity or personal matters.”
“Indeed, I offer my congratulations to him, and I believe it is a positive development.”
Fernando Alonso expressed his agreement, stating, “I fully support him, as does the entire F1 community. It’s wonderful to hear that he is feeling well, and we all share in his joy.”
Read next: Jacques Villeneuve makes two Lewis Hamilton predictions after 104th career win
