Formula 1 race winners Daniel Ricciardo and Charles Leclerc are among the drivers who have voiced support for ‘unity’ amid the race-related protests in the United States.
Protests have been held across the United States – as well as in other parts of the world – following the death of George Floyd.
Lewis Hamilton took to social media on Sunday to express his view and in addition voiced frustration at the silence elsewhere in the motorsport industry.
The reigning World Champion has previously used his platform to express his views on global matters, and earlier this year highlighted a lack of diversity within motorsport.
Several drivers have since taken to social media to express their perspective.
“Seeing the news the last few days has left me saddened, what happened to George Floyd and what continues to happen in today’s society is a disgrace,” said Ricciardo.
“Now more than ever we need to stand together, unified together. Racism is toxic and needs to be addressed not with violence or silence but with unity and action.
“We need to stand up, we need to be a WE. Let’s be better people. It’s 2020 ffs. Black lives matter.
Leclerc, on Instagram Stories, wrote: “#BLACKLIVESMATTER To be completely honest I felt out of place and uncomfortable sharing my thoughts on social media about the whole situation and this is why I haven’t expressed myself earlier. And I was completely wrong.
“I still struggle to find the words to describe the atrocity of some videos I’ve seen on the internet. Racism needs to be met with action, not silence.
“Please be actively engaging, and encouraging others to spread awareness. It is our responsibility to speak out against injustice. Don’t remain silent. I stand.”
Lando Norris, who provided a link to the Black Lives Matter cause, added: “I have fans and followers. Support and love. And I have power through this to lead and inspire so many.
“But we also stand for what’s right. This time I ask you to do something and take action. Go to my bio and click the link to prove your support and show #blacklivesmatter #makeadifference.”
Carlos Sainz Jr. wrote: “These issues that we are facing nowadays in 2020 makes us think that we have gone back in time regardless [of the] suffering and tears of our ancestors. It is crazy to think what is still happening right now, we all have the same blood…
“Regarding our environment, we’re a global sport with workers and fans from all over the world, from various backgrounds, religions, skin colours and conditions. We work together in great harmony to entertain everyone around the globe and spread a message of sportsmanship and unity. I absolutely condemn all types of racism and all types of injustice. Diversity pushes us forward, we embrace it. Hopefully one day everyone will.”
Williams’ George Russell posted: “We all have a voice to speak up for what’s right – and until now I didn’t know how to use mine in this situation. To echo Charles’ words, I just felt out of place sharing my thoughts on these atrocities publicly. I struggle to comprehend what I’m seeing in the news and on social media right now – and honestly, I still can’t find the words to express how it makes me feel.
“But ultimately, no matter how uncomfortable it may be to speak out, silence achieves nothing. Now more than ever, we need peace and equality in this world. It’s time we all stand together and kick racism out of our societies for good. Use your voice, spread awareness as far as you can. We’re all responsible for ending the injustice.”
Williams rookie Nicholas Latifi posted artwork of Floyd along with the message that “this his has to stop #JusticeForGeorgeFloyd #BlackLivesMatter”
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