Hamilton reflects on ‘nerve-wracking’ pride flag helmet debut

Lewis Hamilton has revealed that wearing his pride flag helmet for the first time in Qatar was a “nerve-wracking” experience for him.

Hamilton debuted the helmet at the event in 2021, the first time that the sport visited Qatar.

The helmet sparked a lot of attention as the seven-time World Champion took issue with the country's stance on LGBTQ+ rights.

Hamilton has worn the helmet at several events since, including at events that have similar laws to Qatar.

Speaking to media including RacingNews365.com, Hamilton detailed that he was nervous the first time he went public with the helmet livery.

“I think all we can do is try to just be positive when we do come to these places and do take the opportunity,” he said.

“So that's why I continue to wear the flag here. I was very proud in 2021.

“It was also nerve-wracking because I didn't know how the country would react.

“But it's amazing when I do meet people who are incredibly grateful for utilising my platform for something like that where they felt that they perhaps didn't feel included.

“And as a sport we could attend we have to continue to work on our inclusivity. Diversity continues to be an issue.”

'Everyone could be doing more'

F1 has been pushing for inclusion and diversity for a handful of years, with Hamilton often being the most outspoken driver on social matters.

The Mercedes driver suggested that more effort could be shown by individuals who are also advocating for change.

“1000%, every single person could be doing more,” he said.

“It's always good and well, raising awareness for things. But it's more about the work that's done in the background.

“It's the conversations that you continue to have. And it's just it's such a big machine to shift as well.

“It's not only what people hear, it's a whole country that's very young, particularly in this part of the world.”