The 2020 Formula 1 season was marked by several events among them, a turning point in the category for the defense of various social causes such as sustainability, diversity and racial equality, the latter represented by the anti-racist demonstrations that happened before every GP, something that Daniel Ricciardo hopes will continue through 2021.
Motivated by the demands of seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton amid the demonstrations of the social movement Black Lives Matter all over the world, the F1 began to dedicate a period of time, before the start of each grand prize, for the competitors to demonstrate against racism, with most of them wearing an “End to racism” shirt.
The Hamilton-led movement also involved other drivers, including Ricciardo, who was very active throughout the season, wearing masks and shirts that demanded equality.
In an interview with the British channel Sky Sports, the Australian said he expected the demonstrations to continue in 2021.
“I really hope they continue. I think if we really believe it and stand up for it strongly, there is no reason to end it.”
The Australian also spoke about how 2020 was a year of learning for him on the subject.
“2020 was a difficult year for various reasons, but it was also a year in which I learned more about how the world really works. I am sure of this and I want to continue learning. I hope to educate myself and the others around me. If that means that we are going to maintain a position similar to that of 2020, then we must certainly continue.
Last year, Ricciardo had already talked about how the learning he went through changed the way of understanding the fight against racism.
“I didn’t feel comfortable talking about it at the beginning of the year. But to start talking about things you didn’t talk about before, be it racism, mental health or something like that, is intimidating. It’s important to be prepared for criticism, or at least comments that are not 100% positive ”.
“But then again, if it’s something you really believe in, I don’t see why you shouldn’t. I think, especially with racism. Silence is a big problem, and people think you’re very comfortable in your position. not to mention them ”.
“I think that’s the point: build up courage and if you have a voice, you have to make it heard.”
GALLERY: we remember the samples against racism in F1 at the Styrian GP
The drivers kneel on the grid before the start.
1/9
Photo by: Glenn Dunbar / Motorsport Images
The drivers kneel on the grid before the start.
2/9
Photo by: Glenn Dunbar / Motorsport Images
The crowded pre-race grid
3/9
Photo by: Glenn Dunbar / Motorsport Images
The pilots kneel
4/9
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
The pilots kneel
5/9
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
The pilots kneel
6/9
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
The mechanics of the Mercedes kneel
7/9
Foto de: Charles Coates / Motorsport Images
Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 kneels
8/9
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
The mechanics of the Mercedes kneel
9/9
Foto de: Charles Coates / Motorsport Images