Mercedes is signalling its commitment to the fight against racism and discrimination by revealing a bold new livery for the 2020 car.
Over the past week, Formula 1 has launched the #WeRaceAsOne initiative as well as a Task Force aimed at improving diversity, this in the wake of the ongoing Black Lives Matter movement which world champion Lewis Hamilton has been actively supporting via social media.
And now the German manufacturer has announced its own program will be launched this year to address what they acknowledge is a lack of inclusiveness within their own workforce, with just three per cent of the F1 team identifying as part of a minority ethnic group.
“Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, our sport or our team: this is a core belief at Mercedes, but having the right beliefs and the right mindset isn’t enough if we remain silent,” said team boss Toto Wolff.
“We wish to use our voice and our global platform to speak up for respect and equality, and the Silver Arrow will race in black for the entire 2020 season to show our commitment to greater diversity within our team and our sport.
“We will not shy away from our weaknesses in this area, nor from the progress we must still make; our livery is our public pledge to take positive action.
“We intend to find and attract the very best talents from the broadest possible range of backgrounds, and to create credible pathways for them to reach our sport, in order to build a stronger and more diverse team in the future.”
The decision to change from its traditional silver livery is perhaps the biggest visual statement Mercedes can make in this regard, and in addition, both Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas will wear black overalls and altered helmet designs.
“It’s so important that we seize this moment and use it to educate ourselves whether you are an individual, brand or company to make real meaningful changes when it comes to ensuring equality and inclusivity,” Lewis said earlier this month.
“I have personally experienced racism in my life and seen my family and friends experience racism, and I am speaking from the heart when I appeal for change.
“When I spoke to Toto about my hopes for what we could achieve as a team, I said it was so important that we stand united.
“We want to build a legacy that goes beyond sport, and if we can be the leaders and can start building more diversity within our own business, it will send such a strong message and give others the confidence to begin a dialogue about how they can implement change.”