Lewis Hamilton admires Vinicius Junior's bravery following his recent encounter with his racial abusers.
Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has hailed Vinicius Junior on how he has been able to handle his racial abusers.
The Real Madrid star was racially abused during a La Liga game between Los Blancos and Valencia at the Mestalla.
17:42 - 25.05.2023
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The whole story
Things turned ugly when literally the home fans and some players turned on the Brazilian international.
Ugly scenes then ensued as Vinicius was involved in a tussle with a couple of Valencia players and then shown a red card.
The incident generated lots of attention from the footballing and political world as the act of racism was condemned against the 22-year-old.
The Spanish FA, UEFA, FIFA, coaches, ex-players and the president of Brazil all spoke in one condemning the act.
It is now the turn of the seven-time Formula 1 champion Hamilton who was once abused racially to commend the bravery of the 22-year-old.
What Hamilton said about the issue
Hamilton revealed that he once was the target of racist abuse in his career. He was quoted by Planet Sport:
“It’s devastating to think that in 2023 we’re still seeing these things and hearing these things.
“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.”