Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has learned about racial injustice from Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton

Wolff has learned about racial injustice from Hamilton

The six-time champion has been outspoken following the death of Floyd George

Ian Parkes

Wednesday 3 June 2020 17:36

Mercedes Formula 1 motorsport boss Toto Wolff has conceded to learning about race and diversity from Lewis Hamilton.

Following the recent death of Floyd George in the United States, Hamilton has been extremely vocal, initially criticising the wall of silence from within F1 with regard to what he has stated is "injustice".

In a later post on his Instagram page, Hamilton claimed he was "overcome with rage at the sight of such blatant disregard for the lives of our people", and voicing his dismay at ongoing racism, insisting that "Black Lives Matter".

Article continues under video

Wolff has applauded Hamilton for his defiant words, and claims he has been schooled by the 35-year-old on such issues.

"We know that Lewis is always a strong supporter of any minorities and, to be honest, I have learned a lot from him as well," said Wolff.

"He asked the question once 'Have you ever had the active thought that you are white?' And I said 'No, actually I've never thought about it'. He said 'Well, I have to think about it [being black] every day because I have been made aware that I am'.

"It's therefore very difficult for us to comprehend how difficult it is, and therefore I am happy and supportive that he has come out vocal.

"He is one of the ambassadors of this sport and I think it's good."

Wolff then referred to his own upbringing to highlight his awareness of injustices he has previously experienced, making clear that every person has the opportunity, and responsibility, to act in a positive way.

Wolff added: "I was lucky enough that I was raised in a household with different nationalities, that I lived with a Jewish family for a long time when my family faced tough times, and I saw what discrimination looked like as a child.

"I think all of us have the power to make a change, and sometimes it needs events like the one that happened a few days ago in the US to trigger a massive wave of support for any minority.

"I think it's good that Lewis as a sports superstar is the one upfront with it in a sport that is very much dominated by white males.

"We, as a team, encourage diversity and we choose people purely on performance, not on any culture, religion or skin colour.

"I think all of us can make a difference. Every single one of us must be part of a movement to stop these kinds of things from happening."

Before you go...

Mexico target unchanged event with fans

Schumacher: Time for the Williams family to step down