Lewis Hamilton Receives Response From Saudi Government After Political Snub
Formula 1 has roared back to life under Jeddah's twinkling lights as the weekend's practice sessions and qualifying comes to an end to make way for Sunday's main show.
Unfortunately, there have been a few complaints from drivers who aren't overly happy with the politics of the country, one of which is Lewis Hamilton, who has been keen to not hide his thoughts on the matter. Initially, Lewis Hamilton, known for his social activism, hesitated to participate in Saudi Arabia due to lingering concerns about the Middle Eastern nation. Safety also took center stage after last year's missile attack. But now, the Saudi government has embraced Hamilton's push for positive change in the region.
Lewis Hamilton was quick to pass on any questions regarding his current thoughts on the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, but he was very obviously against the current state of the country in a recent interview.
This is how the country responded. According to F1 Maximaal.nl, SMC chairman and Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al Abdullah Al-Faisal welcomed Hamilton's advocacy for human rights improvement. He stated:
"We want everyone to speak their mind. We have nothing against anyone's opinion. We're not trying to force or stop Hamilton from saying what he wants to say, or wear what he wants to wear.
"If he thinks this is right, and he wants to talk about it, that's his right and we respect that."
As F1 cars raced around Jeddah last year, a nearby Aramco oil plant was struck by a Houthis missile. Consequently, driver safety was scrutinised, with many drivers appearing comfortable. While most drivers have admitted that they are comfortable with the safety precautions taken by the country, F1, and track management.
However, all eyes were on seven-time champ Lewis Hamilton as he was asked about this: “Not much really to add. All the opposite to everything they said," he laughed.
He was then asked to elaborate on his opinions, but he was quick to shut this question down: "Well, I didn't elaborate on it, so it's open to interpretation. I'm looking forward to getting in the [W14] car, for sure."