Lewis Hamilton comment on Max Verstappen at FIA Prize Gala shows F1 star’s true colours

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen attended the FIA Prize Giving ceremony in Baku on Friday to receive their trophies, along with Sergio Perez, who secured the second spot. During the event, Hamilton, who finished third in the championship, showcased sportsmanship by commending his rival Verstappen in his speech.

Despite a close competition with Perez for the second position, Hamilton acknowledged that neither he nor Perez came close to Verstappen, who clinched his third Formula 1 title in a record-breaking manner. The F1 awards were saved for the conclusion of the gala in Baku, where the top three drivers were honored. Hamilton was the first to receive his third-placed trophy and expressed respect for his fellow competitors in his address.

 

In his speech, Hamilton extended congratulations to everyone for enduring a lengthy and challenging season. He also shared his anticipation for the upcoming winter break and emphasized the team’s dedication to returning stronger in the next year. However, Hamilton voiced disappointment over the FIA’s questioning of the integrity of a prominent female leader in the sport without evidence, deeming it unacceptable.

Hamilton underscored the ongoing struggle to enhance diversity and inclusion within the industry. He criticized certain individuals within the FIA leadership, suggesting that each step forward is met with attempts to hinder progress, asserting the need for a change in this pattern.

Additionally, Hamilton raised questions about the choice of Azerbaijan as the gala’s location, expressing his admiration for Baku but questioning the FIA’s commitment to sustainability. He pondered the environmental impact of numerous people flying to the location when the FIA’s headquarters are in Paris, suggesting it would have been more environmentally friendly to host the event there.