Lewis Hamilton expresses disappointment with the progress Formula 1 has made in fostering opportunities for ethnic minorities to join the sport. Despite the ‘We Race as One’ campaign introduced in 2020 to enhance diversity and inclusion, the seven-time world champion believes there is still a considerable distance to cover in achieving the sport’s diversity objectives. Hamilton’s concern grew when he observed a Mercedes team photo that revealed a noticeable lack of diversity. According to a report from the Hamilton Commission, less than 1 percent of Formula 1’s workforce is from Black or other minority ethnic backgrounds. Reflecting on the situation, Hamilton stated that despite efforts initiated in 2019, there has been insufficient progress, particularly evident in a recent team photo with only three individuals of color. He emphasizes the need for a significant shift in this representation.
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) December 30, 2023
In response to the ongoing challenge, Hamilton has been actively involved in driving change at the grassroots level. In collaboration with Mercedes, he launched the Ignite initiative in July 2021, providing grants to individuals from minority backgrounds to pursue careers in motorsports. Hamilton underscores the importance of targeting young individuals and establishing a future pipeline for diversity, emphasizing the positive impact that is gradually becoming evident within the team.