In July 2020, a fight broke out between American motorsport legend Mario Andretti and Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton. In an interview with the Chilean newspaper “El Mercurio”, Andretti explained that in his experience, it is difficult to mix politics with sport. The 1978 Formula 1 World Champion was outraged at how Lewis Hamilton had so vehemently urged his fellow drivers, racing and Formula 1 teams to take action against racism.

The boss came back by mail sent. The Mercedes star explained on Instagram how he found Andretti sober. “It’s disappointing, but it is unfortunately reality, that many people of the older generation cannot get rid of their skin only to realize that we have a problem. This is pure ignorance. But that will not stop me from fighting for change. It is not too late to learn something new. And I hope this guy – who I’ve always appreciated – will take some time to get better information. “

In his interview, Andretti was of the opinion that the debate about racism had become too much. “I have so much respect for Lewis, but why does he have to become a fighter? He has always been accepted, and he has all the respect. Here a problem arises sometimes where there is no problem. To paint Mercedes black – I don’t know what good thing is supposed to be.” He does. I have met racing drivers from diverse backgrounds, and everyone was always welcome. The main color does not play a part in the race. You have to earn your place with the results, and it’s the same for everyone. Yes, black drivers are a minority in motorsport, but that doesn’t mean They are not welcome. “

On a new episode of the Formula 1 podcast “Starting the Network,” Andretti confirmed his remarks. The 12-time Grand Prix winner says of Lewis Hamilton’s social commitment, “I’ve already discussed my opinion on this and I’m criticized for it. But I’m committed to it – I don’t like it when politics finds its way into sport. The nice thing about the Olympics is that delegations are from All over the world are meeting to compete. They are all the same and they all have the same goal. Either you win or you don’t, regardless of your background.

The introduction of politics into sport, as it is today, divides people. We have seen it in the United States. If you say something somewhat doubtful, discussions will begin immediately. I don’t like it when we mix that up. I think Formula 1 should remain a pure sport. Yes, we all have our values, but should we try to pursue our intentions? Well I do not know. I think politics should have its own place. I wish this place was not part of the sport. “

Bahrain-GP in Sakhir

01. Lewis Hamilton (Britain), Mercedes W12, 1:32: 03897 hours
02. Max Verstappen (NL), Red Bull Racing RB16B – Honda, +0,745 seconds
03. Valtteri Bottas (FIN), Mercedes W12, +37383
04. Lando Norris (UK), McLaren MCL35M – Mercedes, +46466
05. Sergio Perez (Mexico), Red Bull Racing RB16B-Honda, +52,047
06. Charles Leclerc (MC), Ferrari SF21, +59,090
07.Daniel Ricciardo (AUS), McLaren MCL35M-Mercedes, +1 06.004 minutes
08. Carlos Sainz (English), Ferrari SF21, +1: 07 100
09. Yuki Tsutaka (J), AlphaTauri AT02-Honda +1: 25692
10. Lance Stroll (CDN), Aston Martin AMR21-Mercedes, +1: 26713
11. Kimi Räikkönen (FIN), Alfa Romeo C41-Ferrari, +1: 28864
12. Antonio Giovinazzi (1st), Alfa Romeo C41 – Ferrari, 1 Tour
13. Esteban Ocon (F), Alpine A521-Renault, +1 Runde
14. George Russell (UK) Williams FW43B – Mercedes +1 Rund
15. Sebastian Vettel (D), Aston Martin AMR21- Mercedes, +1 Rund
16. Mick Schumacher (D), Haas VF-21- Ferrari +1 lap
Outside
Pierre Gasly (F), AlphaTauri AT02-Honda (vehicle damaged after collision)
Nicholas Latifi (CDN), Williams FW43B-Mercedes (turbocharged)
Fernando Alonso (English) Alpine A521-Renault (Bremen)
Nikita Mazpin (Russia), Haas VF-21-Ferrari (Accident)