Lewis Hamilton to sport rainbow flag helmet in Qatar GP in support of LGBTQ+ community that are prosecuted in the Gulf state

Hamilton admitted that wearing the rainbow helmet in public was a “nerve wrecking” situation for him.

Lewis Hamilton to sport rainbow flag helmet in Qatar GP in support of LGBTQ+ community that are prosecuted in the Gulf state

Lewis Hamilton (Via IMAGO)

Lewis Hamilton is known for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and for using his platform to raise awareness. Hamilton is set to make a powerful statement during the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, mirroring his actions during the 2021 Qatar GP. He plans to wear a helmet with the rainbow flag, effectively conveying his support for LGBTQ+ rights in the Gulf State and further highlighting the ongoing concerns surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the region.

The Gulf states have strict regulations against advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, with violations potentially resulting in legal prosecution and a prison sentence of up to three years. In 2022, Qatar did not host the Qatar Grand Prix due to the FIFA World Cup being held in the country.

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However, The Rainbow-flagged armbands in protest against the strict regulations concerning homosexuality stirred controversy during the championship. Lewis Hamilton’s decision to wear his Rainbow Flag helmet in 2023 will draw even more attention to the ongoing situation.

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Acknowledging the situation in 2021, Hamilton admitted that wearing the rainbow helmet in public was a “nerve wrecking” situation for him. He also emphasized the importance of addressing inclusivity in the sport, recognizing that there is still work to be done in promoting diversity. 

“think all we can do is try to just be positive…..So that’s why I continue to wear the flag here. I was very proud in 2021. It was also nerve-wracking because I didn’t know how the country would react,” said Lewis Hamilton, as reported by racingnews365.com

Discover: Lewis Hamilton brands his relationship with F1 a ‘love-hate story’

Lewis Hamilton supports Andretti’s entry into Formula 1

Earlier this week, the FIA approved Andretti’s proposal to become the 11th team on the Formula 1 grid. However, Andretti must still secure a mutual agreement with Formula One Management to make this proposition possible.

Lewis Hamilton and George Russell (Via IMAGO)
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell (Via IMAGO)

Andretti has successfully met all the financial and sporting requirements the FIA sets. Nevertheless, the potential entry of the 11th team into the grid has left the Formula 1 paddock divided, with various opinions and viewpoints on the matter.

Lewis Hamilton acknowledged that the entry of another team onto the grid could open up more employment opportunities for talented drivers. He also believes it can provide opportunities for many qualified female sports drivers.

“I think in F1 I’ve always felt that there weren’t enough cars on the grid. It’s an opportunity for more jobs, there’s another two seats available for a potential female driver to come through ….I think it’ll be more exciting for the race.” said Lewis Hamilton.

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