Lewis Hamilton ready to break rules and risk F1 ban as Mercedes star sends message to FIA

Lewis Hamilton says he will continue to speak out on key issues as he admits he is prepared to break the FIA's new rules on free speech.

The FIA has updated its rules to prohibit drivers from making 'political, religious or personal' remarks without written consent or prior approval.

It comes after the British superstar voiced his concern over racism and diversity while he is also an avid supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.

But the clampdown doesn't faze Hamilton as he said the ban on drivers' free speech will not stop him from speaking out on major issues.

Lewis Hamilton with Mercedes teammate George Russell. Image: Alamy

"Nothing will stop me from speaking on the things I am passionate about," he said.

"The sport has a responsibility to speak out and create awareness on important topics, particularly as we are travelling to different places. So, nothing changes."

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Hamilton's teammate, George Russell, added: "We are not going to limit our thoughts because of some silly regulation. We are all going to share whatever views we have.

"I am not sure why the FIA has taken a stance like this. It is totally unnecessary in the sport and the world we live in.

"Naturally we are seeking clarification and I trust it will be resolved. I would like to think it has been some sort of misunderstanding."

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has been subjected to backlash as a result of his new rules.

But F1 president Stefano Domenicali insists he will 'never gag' drivers from speaking their minds.

Hamilton added: "It would be silly to say I would want to get penalty points for speaking out on things but I am still going to be speaking my mind.

"We still have this platform. The support of Stefano has been amazing and all the drivers have been very much aligned on freedom of speech."

Topics: Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar is a journalist at SPORTbible. He graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA in Media Communications. He's a combat sport aficionado and has contributed to MMA websites AddictedMMA and CagePotato. Nasir has covered some of the biggest fights, while interviewing the likes of Conor McGregor, Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury and Darren Till. He's also an avid Bristol City fan.

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