Hamilton dons a new rainbow helmet at the Qatar Grand Prix
Lewis Hamilton sent a message at the Qatar Grand Prix as he showed off his new rainbow helmet – after calling for ‘scrutiny’ in the country having admitted it was ‘one of the worst’ countries for human rights.
The Mercedes driver will continue his quest for the world title against rival Max Verstappen in the middle east this weekend but has been keen to make a stand on equality in Qatar as it prepares to host its first Grand Prix.
Qatar has been heavily criticised for its policies and laws against women and members of the LGBTQ+ community, including allegations of worker exploitation ahead of the 2022 World Cup.
And Hamilton decided to make a stand by wearing his multi-coloured helmet after arriving in the country, which reads ‘we stand together’ on the back.
He has often been a champion of diversity and has campaigned against racism and discrimination – using his platform to show his support before races.
This week the British star spoke openly about Qatar’s problems and said it was important that the sport raises awareness over human rights issues and scrutinise regimes receiving criticism.
‘We’re aware there are issues in these places that we’re going to,’ he said. ‘But of course [Qatar] seems to be deemed as one of the worst in this part of the world.
‘I do think as sports go to these places, they are duty bound to raise awareness for these issues,’ said Hamilton in Thursday’s press conference on F1’s first day at the Losail circuit near Doha.
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‘These places need scrutiny. It needs the media to speak about these things. Equal rights is a serious issue.
‘However, I am aware in this place they are trying to make steps and it can’t change overnight.
‘I just feel that if we are coming to these places, we need to be raising the profile of the situation.’
He had given his backing to fellow driver Sebastian Vettel in August after the Aston Martin star staged a protest for LGBTQ+ rights at the Hungarian Grand Prix, saying he was ‘proud’ of the German after he wore a shirt reading ‘Same Love’.