Lewis Hamilton backs protestors ahead of British GP… but on one key condition

Lewis Hamilton said he would “welcome” and fully supports protestors at this weekend’s British GP – as long as their actions do not take them onto the track.

Environmental activist group Just Stop Oil have made their presence felt at various sporting events over recent years, including at the 2022 British Grand Prix when protestors made their way onto Silverstone’s Wellington Straight during a red flag period.

And with individuals having recently caused disruption to the England vs Australia Ashes cricket match at Lord’s, there are concerns that this weekend’s British Grand Prix could be targeted once again.

Lewis Hamilton welcomes peaceful protests

Hamilton is certainly no stranger when it comes to pushing for change, especially when it comes to diversity and equality as arguably the most vocal driver on the grid when it comes to speaking out.

It is not particularly surprising then to hear that Hamilton supports the presence of protestors, as long as such protests do not endanger their lives and others.

“I welcome protestors or activists,” said Hamilton, as perSky Sports. “I think always they are pushing for positive change. We never want to see people standing on the track and putting themselves in harm’s way.

“But that sparks conversation, that sparks dialogue and it often helps sometimes, done the right way. It sparks change. And we need more change.

“We need to become more sustainable. We need to be more inclusive. There’s all these things that we need to do more of.

“It’s moving at such a fast pace, the industry, that sometimes some of those things fall off and they need to be sparked up again by conversation. So I hope we don’t have the same scenario that we had last [year]. But as I said, I’m always supportive of peaceful protestors.”

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Toto Wolff sends message to potential protestors

With Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle saying the circuit will “plan for the worst and hope for the best”, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff spoke to Sky Sports News about the efforts Formula 1 are making towards sustainability in a message to potential protestors.

The series has set itself the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030, with the introduction of new power units from 2026 set to act as a key milestone in those efforts.

“From our side, our industry is trailblazing in sustainability,” Wolff assured. “We are having sustainability fuels – in 2026 it will be 100 per cent sustainable.

“The technology and innovation in F1, it’s important to achieve those emission standards. Our cars are driving 200mph down the straights, you are putting yourself and the drivers in danger.

“I can speak for George Russell and Lewis Hamilton [Mercedes team-mates] that they would not want to have anybody be at risk – spectators, fans or themselves. You are seriously putting people in harm.”

Hamilton holds the record for most British Grand Prix wins with eight victories secured at the Silverstone circuit.

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