Lewis not planning Belgium boycott
LEWIS HAMILTON says he has no plans to boycott the Belgian Grand Prix this weekend in protest over the shooting of Jacob Blake.
Major US sporting events including in the MLS, NBA and MLB have been called off this week as athletes protest against racial injustice. Blake was shot on Sunday in Kenosha, Wisconsin and the incident was captured on phone video, igniting new protests over racial injustice in several cities.
But Hamilton, who has led F1’s fight against anti-racism this season, says he will not stand down from Sunday’s race despite praising his fellow athletes for their stance.
“It’s incredible what many out there in the States are doing within their sports,” said Hamilton. “All the way down to the people that are hosting, commentators for example. So many people are standing with the players and really pushing for change. It’s a shame that’s what is needed over there to get a reaction.
“But that is in America and I don’t know if really me doing anything here will particularly have an effect. We’re in Belgium, not in the United States.
“I am really proud of so many out there and I stand unified with them trying to do what I can over here. I don’t know how us not doing the race – it will still go on – is a thing.”