Mario Andretti: Lewis Hamilton has created "a problem that doesn't exist"

Formula 1

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Andretti: Hamilton has created "a problem that doesn't exist"

"There is little diversity, but it's not because they are discriminated against"

Sam Hall

Tuesday 21 July 2020 16:53 Updated: 17:41

Former Formula 1 champion Mario Andretti has criticised Lewis Hamilton for his continued promotion of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) cause, stating that he is "creating a problem that doesn't exist."

Hamilton has been vocal in his support of the anti-racism campaign, and has taken the knee before each race in 2020. He has also been critical of F1's overall response to the issue.

But speaking in Chilean newspaper El Mercurio, Andretti feels that motorsport has been a welcoming place for minorities, and that Hamilton has become 'militant' in his continued promotion of BLM.

Andretti said: “I wish politics didn't get mixed up with sport.

"I have a lot of respect for Lewis, but why become a militant? He's always been accepted and he's earned everyone's respect. I think the whole point of this is pretentious. I feel that way. And it's creating a problem that doesn't exist.

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“I've met drivers from different backgrounds, races, and I've always welcomed them with open arms. In motor racing it doesn't matter what colour you are; you have to earn your place with results, and that's the same for everyone.”

“Yes, they are a minority, but it's not that they're not welcome. I don't know how to explain it, but there have already been black drivers in Indy, NASCAR and they have always been welcome, I'm even friends with some of them to this day.

“I don't know what's wrong. Yes, maybe there is little diversity, but it's not because they are discriminated against. That's the point.”

Former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone also recently questioned whether there is a lack of diversity in motorsport, and Hamilton has once again conveyed his disappointment at the lack of understanding from 'the older generation'.

He wrote: “This is disappointing, but unfortunately a reality that some of the older generation who still have a voice today cannot get out of their own way and acknowledge there is a problem.

"Again, this is plain ignorance but that will not stop me from continuing to push for change. It is never too late to learn and I hope that this man who I’ve always had respect for can take the time to educate himself.”

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