Lewis Hamilton: « I support the peaceful protest »
The climate protests are impacting several major sports events in England and are likely to make an appearance at Silverstone. The drivers do not want to experience the same situation as in the 2022 edition and are calling for protests not to take place on the track.
Lewis Hamilton is a great advocate for the environmental cause. The driver supports multiple climate protests. Despite this support, the driver warns people who may protest by putting themselves in danger.
The seven-time world champion warns possible protesters who would like to return to the track like last year. Six environmental activists had managed to make their way to the track to protest. “I believe we have 100 more marshals this weekend to ensure that it doesn’t happen,” Lewis Hamilton says in a press conference.
The British person also emphasizes that safety is paramount for everyone. « Safety is key and we don’t want anyone to be in danger. »
Formula 1 is highly concerned about climate change to the extent that the objective for Formula 1 is to achieve carbon neutrality. « We are very focused on sustainability. We believe in what people are fighting for, argues the seven-time Formula 1 world champion. »
Pilots against dangerous methods used in protests
During the press conference, the likely protests sparked a debate. Several major sporting events were disrupted by demonstrations. The cricket tournament, The Ashes, was halted. Wimbledon also saw several matches in its tournament suspended due to protests by the activist group, Just Stop Oil.
Lando Norris is against dangerous demonstrations like the one that occurred last year at Silverstone. « It’s a foolish thing to do to put your life at risk with cars driving around. It’s also a very selfish thing to do because of the consequences it would have on the person driving a car if something were to happen », explains the McLaren driver.
Despite everything, the driver agrees that the protests take place but in a safer way. « There are many other much safer ways to attract as much attention. I support it as long as they do it in the right way », asserts the British person.
Oscar Piastri agrees with his teammate at McLaren: « Going on a track with cars reaching speeds of 300 km/h is not the right way to proceed. »
