Image Credits - Planet F1
For many, Lewis Hamilton is quite a trend-setter, well, along with being one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time. But the Briton has also been recognized for his generosity and kind nature by people all across the globe.
The Bahrain GP is set to get the 2022 F1 season underway this weekend. However, F1 has been hit with strong accusations of ignoring human rights abuses in the country. And having a “clear double standard” about where it decides it should and should not host races. The organization recently extended its deal to host races in Bahrain until 2036.
Hamilton, meanwhile, made comments about the human rights issue and donned a rainbow-coloured helmet last year. He has been outspoken on political issues in the past as well. The Mercedes driver’s support for some political prisoners who wrote to him from Bahrain has also inspired hope for potential change in the future.
On Monday, Ali Alhajee, a prisoner in Bahrain, wrote a heartbreaking letter to Hamilton. He explained how the Briton managed to make a difference. In his letter, Alhajee revealed that the political prisoners and prisoners of conscience in Jau prison had previously boycotted watching F1 because of its role in sports washing the regime.
But Hamilton’s outspoken stance on human rights and his support last year for some political prisoners who wrote to him from Bahrain has changed their attitude. The inmates have also started supporting Hamilton during his races and made his iconic number 44 popular in the cells.
Alhajee wrote to Hamilton, “Your genuine concern about these cases has changed the way prisoners think of this sport. To us, you are our champ, not only the best in driving but also a human being who cares about the suffering of others. To reflect our support to you, a new phenomenon spread in the prison. Inmates began to write or draw ‘Sir 44’ or ‘Lewis 44’ on their clothes, which we would wear in support while watching the race.”
Alhajee has claimed that he has been subjected to torture during his interrogation. And been sentenced to 10 years in prison for organizing peaceful protests in Bahrain’s capital Manama.
Hamilton, who won last year’s opening race in Bahrain, will be hoping to start 2022 on a positive note as well this weekend.
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