Lewis Hamilton SLAMS Helmut Marko over ‘completely unacceptable’ comments on Sergio Perez, says an apology isn’t enough

Hamilton believes that the changes cannot be seen until the top figures stop making mistakes.

Lewis Hamilton SLAMS Helmut Marko over ‘completely unacceptable’ comments on Sergio Perez, says an apology isn’t enough

Dr. Helmut Marko, Lewis Hamilton and Sergio Perez (image via IMAGO)

Red Bull Motorsport Consultant Dr. Helmut Marko has been in the news recently for the wrong reasons. The 80-year-old made some questionable remarks about Sergio Perez. Marko hinted that Perez’s failure to match teammate Max Verstappen might be attributed to his Mexican roots. Now, Lewis Hamilton has called out the Red Bull advisor.

Hamilton made it clear that such comments should not be tolerated in Formula 1. The seven-time champion mentioned that despite claiming that no form of discrimination would be allowed in the sport, F1 must ensure that such comments made by Helmut Marko should not be permitted. Lewis Hamilton said that top figures in the paddock simply could not have such archaic mindsets.

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Further, the British racer told Sky, “It’s completely unacceptable what he said. Whilst we say there is no room for any type of discrimination within this sport which there should be – no room for it – to have leaders and people in his position making comments like this is not good for us moving forwards.” Hamilton has been at the forefront of fighting against racism in and outside motorsport for years now.

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Lewis Hamilton admits work needs to be done to prevent such an instance in the future

Lewis Hamilton (image via IMAGO)
Lewis Hamilton (image via IMAGO)

The seven-time champion acknowledged that there is still work left to be done to truly eradicate such discrimination. Lewis Hamilton is convinced that change cannot take place unless the people at the top stop making such remarks. This forms a major barrier to individuals and organizations who are trying to put an end to racism and xenophobia.

The Mercedes driver claims that he was not surprised by Helmut Marko’s comments regarding Perez. The 80-year-old is known for making controversial statements in the media. Hamilton said, “There are a lot of people in the background that really are trying to combat these sorts of things but it’s hard to maneuver if there are people in the top that have those sort of mindsets, that just stop us from progressing. Not surprised, to be honest.”

One can only hope that Hamilton’s comments will be heard by the Red Bull consultant. It is not only just this instance. Rather, this is one of many.

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