Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes team, have sacked four members of staff due to racist bullying. The team have launched an internal investigation in July regarding the racism at the Northamptonshire headquarters and have concluded that four men had breached their diversity and equality policy.
“Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd confirms that four individuals were dismissed from the company on 2 August 2019,” a team statement read.
“These dismissals followed an internal investigation that confirmed breaches of our diversity and equality policy. We condemned this behaviour in the strongest terms and acted immediately upon the complaint.
“We value the diversity of our employees, and it is a source of strength for our team. Our working environment is based on appreciation and mutual respect.”
The Sun newspaper reported that the sacked workers put up a poll during the month of Ramadan on which they guessed when a co-worker would break their fast.
Lewis Hamilton, who is the only black driver in Formula One, has often called for greater diversity within the sport.
Once the racist taunts were aimed at England footballers in Montenegro in March, Lewis Hamilton condemned it ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.
“It is crazy to think that at this time in the world, racism is still such a prominent thing,” Hamilton said. “It is really there, all around the world, and a real issue, which is sad to see. It doesn’t seem like it is going to migrate much over the next few years.”
