Lewis Hamilton, a Formula One (F1) driver, has praised Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior for being ‘brave’ in the face of racial abuse from Valencia fans.
During Real Madrid’s 1-0 La Liga defeat, the Brazilian was able to fight back against racist abuse from the fans. Hearing about the incident, Hamilton said, brought back bad memories for him.
The supporters’ racial attack on the Brazilian winger, who was eventually sent off for violent conduct, was one of the highlights of Valencia’s victory over the La Liga giants, but the red card was rescinded earlier this week.
Hamilton revealed that he once was the target of racist abuse in his career.
“It’s devastating to think that in 2023 we’re still seeing these things and hearing these things,” he said.
“It really hits home for me, it really brings up emotions about things that I experienced, whether it’s back in the UK or when I was racing in Italy or in France or in Spain. It can be so hurtful to the things that people say. I think he’s been incredibly brave.”
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