Sir Lewis Hamilton has received support from multiple athletes after the racist abuse aimed at him by Nelson Piquet.
The Brazilian used a racist slur while speaking about the Mercedes’ driver’s crash at the British Grand Prix with Max Verstappen last year, and the comments from several months ago have no re-surfaced ahead of this season’s race in Silverstone.
It comes after the 69-year-old also allegedly used offensive language to describe world champions Nelson Piquet and Ayrton Senna in the past.
READ: Piquet facing strong punishment from Formula 1 after using racial slur against Hamilton
Hamilton took to Twitter to condemn the abuse aimed at him, and called for more action to be taken against those who perpetrate discrimination.
“It’s more than language. These archaic mindsets need to change and have no place in our sport,” said the seven-time champion.
“I’ve been surrounded by these attitudes and targeted my whole life. There has been plenty of time to learn. Time has come for action.”
Multiple F1 colleagues of Hamilton, including his Mercedes team, issued statements of support for him and condemnation of Piquet’s comments.
Tennis player Naomi Osaka quoted Hamilton’s tweet and said: “Emphasis on ‘there has been plenty of time to learn.’”
Manchester United defender Raphael Varane and Arsenal full-back Nuno Tavares also came to the defence of the 37-year-old.
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“There is no place for racism in any sport, industry or walk of life. Lewis, continue to shine the great light that you do. I stand with you,” said Varane, with Tavares adding: “This must stop. Standing with you, Lewis Hamilton.”
Formula 1 itself released a statement supporting the 103-time race winner and reiterating their desire to create an inclusive sport.
“Discriminatory or racist language is unacceptable in any form and has no part in society. Lewis is an incredible ambassador for our sport and deserves respect,” the statement read.
“His tireless efforts to increase diversity and inclusion are a lesson to many and something we are committed to at F1.”
There are reports that Piquet will have his paddock access revoked if he fails to issue a public apology to Hamilton.