Lewis Hamilton has issued a message of support for those affected by the introduction of a new anti-LGBTQ law in Hungary ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix this weekend. The law, which came into force earlier in July, bans the portrayal or promotion of homosexuality and gender change to under-18s. This not only limits teaching of such issues in schools - with sex education limited to government-approved organisations - but may also have an effect on advertising and TV; for example, certain films or programmes such as Friends may not be able to be broadcast until late at night. In response to the introduction of the law, the European Parliament voted in favour of urgent legal action against Hungary due to the legislation breaching the "values, principles and law" of the EU. Last week, Hungary's far-right prime minister, Viktor Orban, announced that the government will hold a nationwide referendum on "child protection issues". Ahead of the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix, Hamilton has spoken out against the legislation in a message shared on social media. "To all in this beautiful country Hungary. Ahead of the Grand Prix this weekend, I want to share my support for those affected by the governments' anti-LGBTQ+ law," Hamilton wrote in an Instagram Stories message on Thursday. "It is unacceptable, cowardly and misguiding for those in power suggest such a law. Everyone deserves to have the freedom to be themselves, no matter who they love or how they identify. "I urge the people of Hungary to vote in the upcoming referendum to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, they need our support more than ever. "Please show love for those around you because Love will always win. Sending you positivity."
Hamilton is no stranger to speaking out on various social and political issues. This week it was announced that the seven-times World Champion has collaborated with Mercedes to launch a joint initiative called 'Ignite' , aimed at supporting the mission of greater diversity and inclusion within motorsport.
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