Lewis Hamilton responds to Nelson Piquet’s ‘racist language’ after Formula 1 condemns word used in discussion of Max Verstappen crash in British Grand Prix at Silverstone

F1 has condemned the ‘racist language’ used by Nelson Piquet about Lewis Hamilton reacting to the ‘archaic mindset’.

Footage of three-time champion Piquet had surfaced in which he slammed Hamilton for his collision with Max Verstappen in last year’s British Grand Prix.

Getty

Getty

The 69-year-old Brazilian was seen comparing the incident to those between fierce rivals Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost, calling Hamilton a ‘joke’ with an offensive term.

The video was largely ignored when it was released last year, but since its reappearance on social media, F1 has condemned Piquet.

“Discriminatory or racist language is unacceptable in any form and has no role in society,” F1 said in a statement.

“Lewis is an incredible ambassador for our sport and deserves respect. His tireless efforts to increase diversity and inclusion are a lesson for many and we are committed to F1.”

Hamilton himself has since responded to a fan post and tweeted in Portuguese, with the Briton having recently been made an honorary citizen of Brazil.

By writing “Let’s focus on changing mentality” in Portuguese, Hamilton further developed his point.

F1

F1

F1

The sports governing body echoed F1’s thoughts, saying: “The FIA ​​strongly condemns any racist or discriminatory language and behaviour, which has no place in sport or society at large.

“We express our solidarity with @LewisHamilton and fully support his commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in motorsport.”

Hamilton’s Mercedes team also added their thoughts to their driver’s defence.

“We condemn in the strongest terms any use of racist or discriminatory language of any kind,” the Mercedes statement read.

“Lewis has spearheaded our sport’s efforts to combat racism, and he is a true champion of diversity on and off the track.

“Together we share a vision for a diverse and inclusive motorsport, and this incident underscores the fundamental importance of continuing to fight for a better future.”