After the confirmation of races in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, Sebastian Vettel calls out Formula 1 for money-chasing amid sports washing and human rights concerns.
The 4-time world champion has appeared to be a strong advocate for a number of social issues this 2021 Formula 1 season —he's been seen campaigning on environmental issues and advocating on LGBT rights.
https://twitter.com/verstapptom/status/1421864109012918278?lang=en
When it comes to sports washing, it calls on the notion of actions in the sporting world to increase reputation and prestige within respective sports. Hence, Vettel voicing out his concerns on Formula 1 choosing to hold races in countries that have complications with sustainability and human rights — all for the purpose of profitability.
Via Adam Cooper of Motorsport:
“There's more than just that interest, there's obviously huge financial interest, in going forward. But I think at some point you need to ask your question, and people in charge need to ask themselves the question: do you have a moral?”
He adds, “Do you therefore say no to certain things? Or do you just say ‘yes' to any big deal that's around the corner, but for the wrong reasons?”
Despite Formula 1 driving its #WeRaceAsOne campaign throughout the year, Vettel still believes that the sport needs to put action into words. He expounds that there are some issues that are too big to ignore — that we must continue to strive for equality in the world.
“We go to some of those places, and we roll out a huge carpet with nice messages on it. But I think it takes more than just words, I think it takes actions.”
It'll be interesting to see what the sport will make of these comments, but it is clear that Sebastian Vettel will continue to show his support for things that are bigger than Formula 1.
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