Simran Joshi
Lewis Hamilton has raised concerns over comments made by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the president of Formula One’s governing body, the FIA, ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. Ben Sulayem had suggested that F1 drivers should refrain from swearing on team radio, drawing a comparison to rap music. Hamilton criticized the remarks, stating they carried a racial undertone, as the reference to rappers appeared to stereotype black artists. The seven-time world champion expressed his discomfort with the language used, while other drivers, including Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, also dismissed efforts to curtail their expressions on team radio.
Hamilton Criticizes Ben Sulayem’s Stereotypical Remarks
Lewis Hamilton has expressed strong disapproval of comments made by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, in which he compared the language of F1 drivers to that of rap music. Ben Sulayem stated that Formula One needed to differentiate itself from rap music, referencing how often rap artists use profanity. Hamilton, the sport’s only Black driver, saw the comparison as problematic and racially insensitive. He pointed out that the association with rap music, a genre predominantly represented by Black artists, carried an underlying racial tone, stating, “most rappers are black, so it says: ‘We are not like them.’”
Hamilton’s concerns go beyond this incident, reflecting a deeper dissatisfaction with Ben Sulayem’s leadership of the FIA. Since becoming president, Ben Sulayem has been at the center of numerous controversies, including sexist remarks and conflicts with the F1 management. Hamilton criticized the lack of accountability within the governing body, further intensifying the friction between the two. The seven-time world champion emphasized that such remarks from the president do not contribute positively to the culture or inclusivity of the sport.
Verstappen and Norris Dismiss Language Restrictions in F1
Max Verstappen, the current world champion, and his rival, Lando Norris, joined Hamilton in dismissing Ben Sulayem’s concerns over drivers swearing on team radio. In a press conference in Singapore, Verstappen openly mocked the idea of drivers being penalized for using expletives during the intense emotions of racing. He highlighted that his frustrations during races, such as when he referred to his car as being “fucked” in Baku, should be expected in high-stakes situations. According to Verstappen, trying to curtail natural emotional reactions is unnecessary and unrealistic.
Norris echoed these sentiments, arguing that fans appreciate the raw emotions and candid thoughts shared over team radio. For him, the uncensored language adds to the excitement and authenticity of the sport. He expressed concern that restricting drivers’ language could dull the competitive edge and intensity that fans love. Both drivers dismissed efforts to tone down their language, seeing it as part of the passion and unpredictability that defines Formula One.
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