F1 champion Lewis Hamilton included in TIME list of 100 most influential people
Reigning Formula 1 world Lewis Hamilton has been named in TIME’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
Hamilton is combining his quest of going for his seventh F1 world title this year to draw level with Michael Schumacher’s all-time record alongside his drive for equality.
As the only black driver in F1, Hamilton has used his platform as a six-time world champion and large audience on social media to lead the sport’s fight against racism and discrimination.
Hamilton has championed the Black Lives Matter movement at F1 races and has encouraged his fellow drivers to take a knee before each race this season.
The Briton’s activism has not stopped with the fight against inequality, with Hamilton also a keen environmentalist and pushing for changes to help combat global issues such as climate change.
Hamilton recently announced the launch of his own team to compete in the Extreme E racing series which is a new climate-aware sport.
The Mercedes driver has been included on an exclusive list that also features politicians, musicians, activists and fellow stars from the world of sport.
Hamilton has been listed under the ‘Titans’ category and his influence has been praised by NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace.
"I'm the only Black driver in NASCAR's top level,” Wallace said.
"So Lewis' example - as the lone Black F1 driver - is particularly meaningful for me.
"He shows we're out there doing it. To see him conquering the track damn near every weekend, it motivates me to try to do the same.
"His activism has also moved the world. Lewis has brought international attention to the Black Lives Matter movement, through his advocacy on social media and at F1 events.
"Lewis' mental preparation, his aura, his ability to capitalise on every opportunity to use his platform to drive out racism are more than just a model for race-car drivers and other athletes.
"He's an inspiration for everyone."
It is the second time Hamilton has appeared in the TIME 100 list. The full list can be found here.
Lewis regularly attends Grands Prix for Crash.net around the world. Often reporting on the action from the ground, Lewis tells the stories of the people who matter in the sport.
