Hamilton gives notice over alleged human rights abuses

MANAMA: Lewis Hamilton said on Thursday he has been “educating” himself and has “taken steps in private to raise issues” over allegations of human rights abuses in countries where the Formula One circus operates, including this weekend’s season-opener in Bahrain.

However, as the new Formula One season kicks off, calls have been made by a coalition of 22 human rights groups for the sport to carry out an independent inquiry into allegations of abuses associated with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

A letter sent to F1 chiefs cites, for example, claims that an 11year-old boy was arrested for joining protests against last season’s race in the Gulf kingdom.

The Guardian newspaper said Hamilton as well as F1’s new chief executive, Stefano

Domenicali had both received copies of the letter.

Hamilton on Thursday referred to receiving letters from human rights campaigners and alleged victims of torture in Bahrain — asking him to speak out on their behalf.

He has raised questions about the inclusion of a Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on this year’s record 23-race calendar.

“It’s the first time I received letters like that, so I’ve taken the last few months to try and educate myself — because coming here all these years I wasn’t aware of all of the details of human rights issues,” said Hamilton at a pre-season news conference.

He added he had spoken to human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, and taken steps in private to raise the issues.