Sebastian Vettel has backed Lewis Hamilton in calling for better planning to allow drivers to take a knee after the Hungarian Grand Prix.
After 13 drivers joined the world champion in by taking a knee during an organised moment before the Austrian GP, the following two races have seen it much less prioritised, taking place just prior to the national anthem.
Part of this is because the pre-race procedure has been altered to accommodate the coronavirus protocols, and in Hungary, drivers gathered in the pitlane rather than on the front of the grid as is typically the case.
That means many drivers were late in arriving for the anthem, let alone having chance to joining Hamilton in showing their support against racism.
“They need to do a better job, it was such a rush,” he told Sky Sports post-race. “I was getting out of the car, running over, and quickly taking the knee.”
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Then later on Instagram, Hamilton wrote a broader criticism of what occurred.
“Today I raced for everyone out there who is pushing to make positive change and fight inequality, however, sadly, as a sport we need to do so much more,” he stated.
“It is embarrassing that many teams have not made any public commitment to diversity or that we couldn’t properly find time to make a symbolic gesture in support of ending racism before the race.
“Today felt rushed and massively lacked organisation and effort, which in turn dilutes the message and makes it seem like there was something more important. It doesn’t matter if you stand or kneel, but we should be showing the world that F1 is united in its commitment to equality and inclusivity.”
Hamilton also called out Haas driver and GPDA director Romain Grosjean, claiming that the Frenchman doesn’t think it needs repeating after doing it once in Austria.
But while he has typically been the lone voice on racism and taking a knee, Vettel later agreed with the Briton that, those drivers who wish to join Lewis in taking a knee, be given the chance.
“What you see is what the situation is,” the Ferrari driver said.
“[On Sunday there] was very, very little time, everything was a bit rushed. I think drivers were just about to arrive.
“[There was time] to do whatever every driver individually decided to do, but in the end, they were starting [the national anthem].
“I think going forward, it’s probably true that we need talk amongst ourselves a bit better, so hopefully we can sort it out.”
Formula 1 later responded to Hamilton, reaffirming its commitment to fight racism.
“Ending racism and increasing diversity and inclusion in F1 is a clear priority and something everyone supports,” a statement read.
“We set out our plans for diversity and inclusion last November and have in recent weeks announced additional plans to create a Taskforce to tackle these issues and a foundation with over $1m already donated to create apprenticeships and job opportunities for under-represented groups.
“We want to make lasting change and are acting to do this.”
