Nelson Piquet has apologised to Lewis Hamilton over his comments but has denied any racial intent.
Details from an interview Piquet did last year emerged earlier this week, in which the Brazilian appeared to use a racially offensive expression when referring to Hamilton.
Since the details of Piquet’s comments surfaced, it has led to the whole F1 paddock showing their support for seven time world champion Hamilton as they condemned Piquet’s comments.
Advert
Hamilton called for ‘action’ and said that ‘archaic mindsets need to change and have no place’ in the sport.
And now, Piquet has released a statement to ‘clear up the stories’.
He said: “What I said was ill thought out, and I make no defence for it.”
“But I will clarify that the term used is one that has widely and historically been used colloquially in Brazilian Portuguese as a synonym for 'guy' or 'person' and was never intended to offend.”
“I would never use the word I have been accused of in some translations. I strongly condemn any suggestion that the word was used by me with the aim of belittling a driver because of his skin colour.”
Advert
The Brazilian added: “I apologise wholeheartedly to anyone that was affected, including Lewis, who is an incredible driver, but the translation in some media that is now circulating on social media is not correct.”
“Discrimination has no place in F1 or society and I am happy to clarify my thoughts in that respect.”
According to Sky Sports, Piquet will be not allowed back in the paddock after this incident. The Brazilian made the controversial comments in November last year after the British Grand Prix, which saw Hamilton and title rival Max Verstappen involved in a dramatic crash that led to the Dutch driver being taken to hospital after suffering minor injuries.
Advert
Piquet is the father of Verstappen’s partner, Kelly Piquet.
The two drivers are set to rekindle their rivalry again as the British Grand Prix is due to take place this weekend at Silverstone.
Hamilton and his Mercedes team have endured a torrid start to the season as they continue to struggle with the ride of the car.
Verstappen meanwhile is leading the driver’s championship as he looks to defend his world title which he won under controversial circumstances last year.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1, Max Verstappen
