Lewis Hamilton Admits Racism Fears Almost Made Him Re….read more
Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton recently revealed that concerns about racism in Italy almost led him to reconsider his high-profile switch from Mercedes to Scuderia Ferrari for the 2025 season. As the sport’s only Black driver, Hamilton has faced multiple incidents of racial abuse throughout his career, making his move to Ferrari a deeply personal and complex decision. In a candid interview with TIME, he admitted that these concerns crossed his mind but ultimately decided to take on the challenge, hoping to reshape perceptions and fight against discrimination in the sport.
A Career Marked by Racial Challenges
Hamilton’s fears about racism in Italy are not unfounded, as he has experienced discrimination at various points in his racing career. One of the most shocking incidents occurred in 2008 during his debut season in Formula 1. At the time, a group of Spanish fans at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya appeared in blackface, mocking him while referring to themselves as “Hamilton’s Family.” The incident sparked outrage, but it was just the beginning of the racial abuse he would endure in his rise to becoming one of the greatest drivers in F1 history.
The issue of racism reemerged in 2021 following a high-profile crash between Hamilton and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen at the British Grand Prix. After the controversial collision at Silverstone, Hamilton was subjected to a wave of racial abuse on social media. The situation became so severe that Formula 1, the FIA, and Mercedes released joint statements condemning the attacks. Even Red Bull Racing, Verstappen’s team, issued a strong message denouncing racism and calling for accountability.
Despite these experiences, Hamilton has remained a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in motorsport. He has used his platform to push for change, establishing the Hamilton Commission to promote greater representation of Black individuals in STEM-related careers within motorsport.
Fear of Racism in Italy Almost Derailed Ferrari Move
When Hamilton announced his decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025, it shocked the motorsport world. However, he now admits that joining the legendary Italian team wasn’t an easy choice. His concerns about potential racism in Italy weighed heavily on his mind. In his interview with TIME, Hamilton acknowledged, “It definitely crossed my mind when I was thinking about my decision. It’s often such a small group of people that set that trend for many. I don’t think it’s going to be a problem.”
Italy has had its share of racism-related controversies in sports, particularly in football, where Black players have frequently been subjected to racial abuse from fans. These incidents contributed to Hamilton’s hesitation in joining Ferrari, one of the most iconic teams in F1 history, with a passionate and sometimes highly critical fanbase.
Hamilton’s Determination to Overcome Prejudice
Despite his initial concerns, Hamilton ultimately chose to move forward with Ferrari, seeing it as an opportunity to challenge negative stereotypes and inspire change. He remains confident in his ability to rise above any negativity and has no interest in responding to critics who question his choices. “I’ve always welcomed the negativity. I never, ever reply to any of the older, ultimately, white men who have commented on my career and what they think I should be doing,” he said.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is set to mark a new chapter in his career, both on and off the track. As he prepares to don the famous red racing suit, his presence at Ferrari could help foster a more inclusive and diverse culture within the team and among its fanbase. By embracing this challenge, Hamilton continues to prove that he is not just a racing legend but also a powerful force for change in Formula 1.
