Hamilton explains why he performed the Black Power salute

Lewis Hamilton

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Hamilton explains why he performed the Black Power salute

"It was an important moment for me."

Ian Parkes & Sam Hall

Friday 17 July 2020 08:06

Lewis Hamilton has declared his decision to twice give the Black Power salute after the Styrian Grand Prix as "an important moment" in his life, and one he would never forget.

Prior to the start of the two season-opening races at the Red Bull Ring, Hamilton took a knee as part of his promotion for diversity and the Black Lives Matter campaign.

Following his first victory on Sunday, the six-time F1 champion copied the salute made famous by African-American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympic Games.

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It is clear that making the gesture meant a great deal to Hamilton as he said: "I remember seeing and reading about their experience, and seeing the iconic image of their salute, and that was inspiring for me.

"Racism is something that has been around for hundreds of years and currently continues, the fight continues, and when you've got icons, people like that, who have stood up against this battle, I just find it inspiring.

"I just took a page out of their book, realising that I have this platform, this opportunity to continue to raise awareness, and try to unite people. To try to educate myself, but also educate other people, and that was really where it came from."

As to its poignancy, delivering the first salute as he stood on top of his car in parc fermé, and again, most notably, on the podium, Hamilton added: "It felt like the right moment. It felt an important moment for me."

Hamilton has not indicated whether he will take the knee again ahead of Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix. Prior to the Styrian race, the reaction was splintered amongst the drivers.

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