Vinicius Jr’s courage in standing up to racism and demanding that racists be punished was cause for celebration for Lewis Hamilton. The Formula 1 driver, one of today’s most active voices in the fight against racial discrimination, has also been a victim of abuse in Spain. When commenting on the Brazilian’s position, the British also mentioned other cases.
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– It is devastating to think that in the year 2023 we are still seeing and hearing these things. It really hits me, it brings up emotions about the things I’ve been through, whether it’s in the UK or when I was racing in Italy or France or Spain. I think he was incredibly brave. I find it amazing what so many sufferers of (racism) on the ground do in terms of staying firm and humble in their approaches. Don’t be reactive, but be responsible when they come forward, because they know there are a lot of kids watching. “
The case of Spain, cited by the driver, occurred during pre-season in Barcelona, on February 2, 2008. A year earlier, Luis was the biggest rival of Spaniard Fernando Alonso, in McLaren, and garnered a lot of hate in the country. So much so that he was booed every time he appeared or left the pits during the Circuit de Catalunya.
However, the fan demonstrations gave way to the racists in attendance. One group wore black wigs, had black face paint and “The Hamilton Family” T-shirts while making monkey noises in the stands. Banners containing acts of hostility to the British, which were later removed by the security services, could also be seen.
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