Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has expressed his unease about the Grand Prix against the background of the much-criticized human rights situation in Saudi Arabia.
“It's not my choice to be here.
Sport made the decision to be here, ”said the socially and politically committed Mercedes driver on Thursday before the Formula 1 premiere in the conservative kingdom.
Hamilton was asked whether the motorsport premier class campaign for more diversity (“We race as one”) would not prevent the race from being held in Jeddah.
"I can't pretend I have the deepest understanding of someone who grew up here in a community," said Hamilton.
He was welcomed in the country.
Nevertheless: "I consider it our duty to raise awareness of certain issues, especially human rights."
After Qatar, Hamilton will wear his new helmet in rainbow livery in the last two races of the season in Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi.
The 36-year-old would like to support the LGBTQIA + community on the Arabian Peninsula.
LGBT is the English abbreviation for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.
Often the variants LGBTQ, LGBTQI or LGBTQIA + are also used.
Each letter stands for one's own gender identity or sexual orientation.
"If everyone wants to take the time to read what the law means for the LGBTQ + community, that's pretty terrifying," criticized Hamilton, emphasizing, "A lot has to change and our sport has to do more."