I will continue to speak my mind – Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton says he will continue to speak out on important issues despite the ban on drivers’ free speech.

Hamilton is the latest driver to express concern about a new rule that prohibits drivers from making “personal, religious, or political statements” without written permission.

The governing body, the FIA, has stated that it will clarify the meaning of the new rule it implemented this year.

“Nothing will stop me from speaking about the issues that I am passionate about,” Hamilton said.

“The sport has a responsibility to speak out and create awareness on important topics, particularly as we are traveling to different places. As a result, nothing changes.”
Mercedes will return to an all-black color scheme in 2023.
The new rule is the latest in a string of controversies during Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s presidency.

The 61-year-old Emirati informed teams last week that he would be stepping back from day-to-day involvement in F1. The move came after senior figures expressed concern about his behavior.

In recent years, Hamilton has been at the forefront of F1’s efforts to raise awareness of issues concerning diversity and human rights.

The rule leaves open the possibility of drivers being penalized or even banned from racing for speaking out.

The seven-time champion stated that he and his colleagues agreed with F1 president Stefano Domenicali’s recent comments that he would “never gag” drivers.

Hamilton said: “It would be silly to say I would want to get penalty points for speaking out on things but I am still going to be speaking my mind.

“This platform is still available to us. Stefano’s support has been incredible, and all of the drivers have been completely united in their support for free speech.”