Charles Leclerc, a driver from the Ferrari team, came to the defense of Lewis Hamilton on Tuesday after the racist comments made by Nelson Piquet, three-time Formula 1 world champion, when talking about the British driver in an interview.
WATCH | The racist term Nelson Piquet used to refer to Lewis Hamilton: controversy in F1
The Brazilian called the seven-time world champion of the top category of motorsport "negrito," an unfortunate decision that has been condemned in the motorsport world.
Leclerc also expressed his opinion on social media and made his position against any type of discrimination clear. "I have known Lewis since I arrived in Formula 1, and he has always been extremely respectful to me and everyone he knows. Those values should be the standard for anyone worldwide," began the Monegasque driver.
"The comments made towards Lewis should continue to drive a more diverse and inclusive sport. We need to eliminate discriminatory behavior and racist language in any form, not just from our sport but also from our society," he added.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) and the Mercedes Formula 1 team have shown their support for British driver Lewis Hamilton after he suffered another 'racist attack'.
Mercedes quickly responded on social media. "We strongly condemn any use of racist or discriminatory language of any kind. Lewis has led the efforts of our sport to combat racism and is a true champion of diversity both on and off the track," wrote his team.
"Together, we share the vision of a diverse and inclusive motorsport, and this incident underscores the fundamental importance of continuing to fight for a better future," they concluded.
The FIA also expressed its condemnation of "racist or discriminatory language and behavior, which has no place in sport or society in general. We express our solidarity with Lewis Hamilton and fully support his commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the motor sport."
Ver noticia en El Comercio: DT