Hamilton Details 'Nerve-Wracking' Experience Wearing Pride Flag Helmet In Qatar

Friday, 06 October 2023 at 11:30

Updated at Tuesday, 10 October 2023 at 21:54

Mercedes F1 Driver Lewis Hamilton reveals his thoughts behind wearing a Progress Pride flag on his helmet during the 2021 Qatar Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton made a significant statement during the 2021 Qatar Grand Prix, where he decided to put a Progress Pride flag (a more inclusive version of LGBTQ+) design on his helmet. Seven-time World Champion could not know what the result of his actions would be.

The country of Qatar is notorious for its Anti-anti-LGBTQ+ laws, where relationships of the same sex might lead to imprisonment. Consequently, Hamilton's move could be considered risky in the eyes of many. Speaking for media ahead of the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, Hamilton detailed his experience.

"think all we can do is try to just be positive when we do come to these places and do take the opportunity, so that's why I continue to wear the flag here. I was very proud in 2021. It was also nerve-wracking because I didn't know how the country would react."

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On the other hand, Hamilton, who would finally like to win a Grand Prix, shares that he meets numerous people who are grateful for doing what he does.

Some people might not feel included, and the seven-time World Champion feels that we should be more inclusive. Hamilton urges Formula One fans to raise awareness, be more inclusive, and have crucial conversations with each other.

"But it's amazing when I do meet people who are incredibly grateful for utilising my platform for something like that where they felt that they perhaps didn't feel included. And as a sport we could attend we have to continue to work on our inclusivity. Diversity continues to be an issue.”

"1000%, every single person could be doing more. It's always good and well, raising awareness for things. But it's more about the work that's done in the background. It's the conversations that you continue to have. And it's just it's such a big machine to shift as well."