Formula 1 has confirmed plans for a pre-race ‘End Racism Recognition’, following criticism that its previous efforts have been poorly planned.
At the season-opener in Austria time was set aside prior to the national anthem to deliver the ‘End Racism’ message, fronted by Lewis Hamilton who, along with several other drivers, knelt before the anthem.
At the second race no time was set aside whilst in Hungary it was described as a “shambles” as some drivers weren’t even present.
Hamilton, F1’s only Black driver, has been the driving force behind the movement and he called on the sport to do better for his home race this weekend.
Plans have now been confirmed which will see an ‘End Racism’ banner placed across the circuit, with a VT played before drivers assemble. This VT will show drivers pledging their support.
Drivers will then be able to choose whether they want to take a knee, stand with their arms crossed, point at their ‘End Racism’ t-shirt or bow their head among other options.
The national anthem of the United Kingdom will then play and this will be followed by a Spitfire flyover to thank key workers, with the words ‘Thank You NHS’ written on the underside of the plane.
A clap, like those which were held on Thursday’s during lockdown across the country to show support for the NHS, will be held.
