Before the start of the Austrian Grand Prix, all drivers had the opportunity to kneel before the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement. Dutch Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen, together with a number of others, decided not to do this. Kneeling has become a – not undisputed – anti-racism symbol worldwide, following the death of George Floyd in late May.
Anyone who wished to kneel before the Austrian national anthem to express support for the anti-racism protests currently underway around the world. Six drivers decided not to do this. The symbol is not entirely undisputed. Many see kneeling as too politically charged and disrespectful to the Austrian national anthem, when it is mainly an American problem.
Verstappen responds: “I am very committed to equality and the fight against racism. But I also believe that everyone has the right to express themselves at a time and in a way that suits them. I’m not going to get down on my knees today because I came to Austria to race, but I respect and support the personal choices each driver makes to express themselves. ”
I am very committed to equality and the fight against racism. But I believe everyone has the right to express themself at a time and in a way that suits them. I will not take the knee today but respect and support the personal choices every driver makes #WeRaceAsOne #EndRacism
— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) July 5, 2020
“Karma”
Despite the explanation of Max Verstappen, many people reacted violently on Twitter. Many speak of karma, referring to the fact that Verstappen had to leave the race early. The national coach of the Netherlands and ex-footballer Ronald Koeman also reacts. “I don’t understand that not everyone does that. I’m surprised a number of drivers didn’t do it. You discuss that beforehand, don’t you? In England you see all players kneel before matches. ”, he says in ‘Studio Sport’. Although he can count on little support. Many cite the hypocrisy of Koeman, who in his youth was often discredited by his behavior.
