Now that Mercedes has corrected the erratic course and Formula 1 gives him some joy again, the mystical and activist Hamilton reappears, dedicated to veganism, diversity and the environment. The seven-time world champion is on vacation in Africa, a continent that he says has been inspiring in his search for his roots. The pilot was born in England and his father comes from the Caribbean island of Granada, one of the entry points for African slaves to America in the worst time of humanity. Hamilton, who in his early days in Formula 1 had a reputation for being self-centered, arrogant and a bad loser, has been involved in social causes for more than five years, especially in the propagation of ‘Black Lives Matter’ and the rights of black citizens. Now, on his vacations from Namibia and other African countries, the pilot, like Obama reincarnated, says why he visits this continent: “I want to be close to my brothers.”
Hamilton tells on his social networks: “This year I am going to spend my vacation doing something that I have wanted to do for years. I’m finally tracing my roots through Africa and guys, to say this trip has been a grassroots experience is an understatement. East it’s been a life changing reboot».
Like so many times since he decided to stop being a rock star to become an agitator of consciences, the pilot navigates in spirituality. “I feel like I’ve gained a new perspective on life, grown an even stronger love for animals, and grown even closer to my siblings with whom I’ve shared this special journey. Wherever I look, I am surrounded by so much beauty that I feel truly centered and at peace.”
Hamilton no longer appears on his social profiles as a Formula 1 driver, but in his new citizen version. On twitter he claims to be this person: ‘Diet without processed foods, love for animals. Constantly looking for my purpose, adventure, open mind and positivity’. The diet that Hamilton practices is the WFPB, a nutritional model that consists of consuming foods in the most natural way and that excludes highly processed ones. Plant-based eating patterns focus on plant-based products. This includes not only fruits and vegetables, but also nuts, seeds, oils, whole grains, legumes, and green beans.
Hamilton describes his stay in Namibia: “One of the most impressive places that I have seen with my own eyes. Words and pictures don’t do it justice. I couldn’t think of a better place to spend this free time.”
During the pandemic, the seven-time Formula 1 champion expanded on the spread of social causes, the fight against racism and in clashes with the political class. He censured the attitude of former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, got hooked on the Spanish bullfighters for what he considers mistreatment of the animal and created a division called the “Hamilton Commission” with the aim of promoting racial diversity and the access of young black people to F1 . Since he landed in 2007, the Briton is the only black driver to have competed in the sport since its inception. “It’s a pity that he’s not a Muslim,” Bernie Ecclestone, the former F1 supremo, introduced him with his acid humor and incomparable commercial instinct, due to the scarce implantation of cars in Arab countries.
Regarding the defense of the black race, Hamilton promoted a liturgy that has fallen into disuse in F1 and sport, the drivers with their knees to the ground demanding equal rights for black people after the death of George Floyd.
At the premiere of the first grand prix in Saudi Arabia last season, he fueled the conscience of minorities with a statement without political correctness, such is his new style. “As a sport we are obliged to make sure that we try to help raise awareness of certain issues, in particular human rights in these countries,” said the Englishman, who has eloquently promoted the future celebration of a race in South Africa.
Last year in Qatar, a country where homosexuality is punishable by law, the pilot decided to wear the helmet with the colors of the LGBT community. Now from his summer hiatus in Africa, Hamilton is insisting on the message. “Sending everyone peace and light.”
