Mercedes driver Hamilton, who learned about the protests against global oil use at the post-race press conference, said: “Make the protesters grow.
The 37-year-old, who finished third in a dramatic race, added: “I love people fighting for the planet and we need more people like them.”
After the press conference, Mercedes said in a statement sent to CNN: “Lewis approved of their right to protest but not the method they chose, which jeopardized their safety and that of others.”
Later that day, Hamilton took to Instagram to clarify his thoughts.
“As we have seen today, it is a very dangerous sport,” he wrote. “I was unaware of the protests today, and while I will always support those who stand up for what they believe in, it must be done safely. Please don’t jump on our racing circuits to protest, we don’t want to put you in danger.”
“We offered to facilitate a peaceful event at the circuit, but instead they chose to put the lives of the drivers, marshals and volunteers at risk. It is incredibly disappointing that anyone would make the decision to do so,” he said. -he declares.
“Fortunately, we had plans in place for an eventuality like this and the group was quickly removed and arrested by our officers.”
“If you are more outraged by this disruption than our world is burning before our eyes, then you need to get your priorities straight,” the post said.
Race winner Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez, who finished second, said they supported the cause but criticized the way the protest was conducted.
“I think people have the ability to express themselves and protest wherever they want, because it’s a right. I just don’t believe jumping onto a Formula 1 track is the best way to do that. do, and put himself and all the other drivers in danger,” said Ferrari driver Sainz, who took his first victory, at the post-race press conference.
“So yeah I’m supporting the cause, I think Formula 1 is already doing a great job of trying to get to zero carbon by 2030. And we’re pushing in that area and we’re pushing F1 and pushing the FIA [motorsport’s governing body] to find ways to move in that direction.”
F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali called the protesters’ actions “irresponsible and dangerous”.
“Everyone has the right to speak out on issues, but no one has the right to put lives at risk,” he told reporters. “The actions of a small group of people today were completely irresponsible and dangerous.
“We thank the police for their excellent work and we should not be content with the risk this poses to the safety of the drivers, marshals, fans and the individuals themselves.”
