Lewis Hamilton condemns Hungary’s ‘cowardly’ anti-LGBTQ+ law ahead of Grand Prix

Kieran Galpin

Hamilton stands with the LGBTQ+ community

F1 champion Lewis Hamilton has condemned Hungary’s controversial anti-LGBTQ laws. He branded them “unacceptable” and “cowardly” ahead of the Grand Prix at the Hungaroring.

Back in June, a law was passed with 157 votes to one that sought to ban LGBTQ content from being shown on kids TV and in schooling systems. During this year’s Euro tournament, Hungary was continually a focal point of criticism from other nations. UEFA inevitably rejected the request for the Allianz Arena to be illuminated in rainbow colours for tomorrows Germany V Hungary game.

Despite UEFA blocking the request, an incredible amount of fans brandished pride flags in support.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CR6k8WgLBfJ/

Writing on Instagram, Hamilton said:

“To all in this beautiful country Hungary.

“Ahead of the Grand Prix this weekend, I want to share my support for those affected by the government’s LGBTQ+ law. It is unacceptable, cowardly and misguiding for those in power [to] suggest such a law.

“Everyone deserves to have the freedom to be themselves, no matter who they love or how they identify. I urge the people of Hungary to vote in the upcoming referendum to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, they need our support more than ever.

“Please show love for those around you because love will always win. Sending you positivity.”

In similar news, Hamilton was targeted with racist abuse on social media. Though many comments congratulated the eight-time champion, others criticised the crash. Commentors employed monkey emojis to abuse the champion, posting them alongside criticisms of his performance or the crash with Verstappen.

Formula One has released a joint statement with the FIA and Hamilton’s team Mercedes-AMG Petronas condemning the abuse:

“During, and after, yesterday’s British Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton was subjected to multiple instances of racist abuse on social media following an in-race collision.

“Formula 1, The FIA and Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team condemn this behaviour in the strongest possible terms.

“These people have no place in our sport and we urge that those responsible should be held accountable for their actions.

“Formula 1, the FIA, the drivers and the teams are working to build a more diverse and inclusive sport, and such unacceptable instances of online abuse must be highlighted and eliminated.”