Lewis Hamilton Criticizes Helmut Marko’s Controversial Remarks About Sergio Perez

Lewis Hamilton, the iconic Formula 1 driver, has recently shared his thoughts on the controversial remarks made by Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko concerning Sergio Perez. In a candid interview ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix with Sky Sports F1, Hamilton expressed his views on this sensitive matter.

Marko’s comments sparked outrage among fans and the Formula 1 community. He faced severe backlash for remarks that were deemed “racist and xenophobic.” While speaking to Servus TV, Marko’s choice of words regarding Perez had raised eyebrows, leading to widespread criticism.

When asked about his perspective on Marko’s comments, Hamilton didn’t mince words. He stated, “I’m not surprised.” This concise response underlined the unfortunate reality of such incidents within the sport.

In the wake of the controversy, Marko did issue a formal apology for his remarks. However, the absence of an official statement from Red Bull distancing themselves from the comments left many astonished. Hamilton, a staunch advocate for increased inclusivity and diversity in Formula 1, voiced his concerns on this matter.

“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.

“I think it just highlights, firstly, the work that still needs to be done. There are a lot of people in the background that really are trying to combat these sorts of things but it’s hard to manoeuvre if there are people in the top that have those sort of mindsets, that just stop us from progressing. Not surprised, to be honest.”

Hamilton’s commitment to fighting for a more inclusive and diverse Formula 1 is well-documented. He has been a driving force behind initiatives aimed at making the sport more accessible and welcoming to individuals from all backgrounds.

“I don’t know what was said beyond, that’s something to ask Checo [Sergio Perez], but I think this is not something that you just apologise [for] and it’s all ok. I think there needs to be more done.

“Teams, when they’ve had individuals, particularly drivers, make comments but [also] some individuals in the background – they usually are removed or at least they put out a quote and say they don’t support that sort of thing. So it is interesting that they haven’t done so for this one, but it’s not my team and it’s not how we move as a team.

“It just shows how important it is that we continue to do the work. The work that I’m trying to do with my team and with the sport. We still have a lot of work to do moving forward to make sure that this is a more inclusive environment.”