Hamilton "proud" of Mercedes' diversity commitment

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes have committed to launching a new "joint charitable foundation" to support diversity in motorsport after the seven-time world champion signed a new deal with the team.

After months of speculation, Mercedes announced on Monday Hamilton had signed a new one-year contract.

During 2020, issues of inequality dominated the news with celebrities and sports personalities taking a firm stance that enough is enough. Formula 1 introduced the #WeRaceAsOne initiative, with Hamilton himself launching 'The Hamilton Commission' to provide opportunities for minority groups.

At the Styrian Grand Prix, Hamilton again made history by inviting Petronas trackside fluid engineer Stephanie Travers to represent Mercedes on the podium, making Travers the first black woman to stand on the F1 rostrum.

As a part of the new deal, Hamilton and Mercedes will create a joint charitable foundation to "improve diversity in Formula 1".

Hamilton said: "I'm determined to continue the journey we started to make motorsport more diverse for future generations and I am grateful that Mercedes has been extremely supportive of my call to address this issue.

"I'm proud to say we are taking that effort further this year by launching a foundation dedicated to diversity and inclusion in the sport. I am inspired by all that we can build together and can't wait to get back on the track in March."

Described as "a significant part" of Hamilton's new deal, this latest step will build upon the steps made by Mercedes last year to increase diversity within its own ranks.

Mercedes-Benz cars chief operating officer and non-executive chairman of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, Markus Schäfer, added: "Lewis is not only an incredibly talented driver; he also works very hard for his achievements and is extremely hungry. He shares his passion for performance with the entire team which is why this collaboration has become so successful.

"But Lewis is also a warm-hearted personality who cares deeply about the world around him and wants to make an impact. As a company, we share this sense of responsibility and are proud to launch a new, joint foundation to improve diversity in Formula One.

"Opening the series to under-represented groups will be important for the sport’s development in the future and we’re determined to make an impact."

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