Lewis Hamilton's Black Lives Matter gestures branded "too much" by Vitaly Petrov

Former Formula One racer Vitaly Petrov has slammed defending F1 champion for his persistent support for Black Lives Matter movement. Petrov, who participated in F1 between 2010 and 2012, said Hamilton's recent stance to show support for Breonna Taylor was a little "too much," especially considering British racer is alrey leing racing organisation's protest against anti-racism by kneeling prior to every race. 

Speaking to Championat, former Russian F1 racer said, "For me, this t-shirt, on top of calling for everyone to kneel, was too much. t is a personal matter for every ult. You have right to speak out on social media or give interviews, but I think US government is well aware of se problems alrey."

Also Re | Arati Saha: All You Need To Know About Indian Swimmer As Google Celebrates Her 80th B'day

"But to call on that in Formula 1 itself... I think half of spectators didn't even know what shirt was about until it was explained to m. And let's say a driver mits to being gay - will y come out with a rainbow flag and urge everyone to become gay as well? I think FIA will no longer allow such behaviours."

Not all racers have opted to kneel ahe of F1 races. Vitaly Petrov boldly claimed Russia does not have problem Lewis Hamilton is talking about (racism) and that y only kneel "before God or to propose to one's future wife."

Also Re | Tuscan Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton Secures 90th Formula One Win After 8 Drivers Crash Out

Lewis Hamilton BLM support 'Say Her Name' t-shirt for Breonna Taylor

Lewis Hamilton me helines earlier this month for wearing a Black Lives Matter t-shirt at Tuscan GP that featured 'Arrest cops who killed Breonna Taylor' at front, and 'Say Her Name' at back. Hamilton wore shirt prior to race and also when he stepped on podium to celebrate his first place finish at Tuscan GP.

Brit was later investigated by FIA, who were looking to determine wher Hamilton's gesture was against F1's guidelines of sending political messages during races. FIA opted against punishing Lewis Hamilton, but are yet to acknowledge if such messages can be seen in future events. 

Also Re | ISSF To Hold Online International Shooting Championship After Sharif's Historic Success

Breonna Taylor, a medical technician, was shot de at her home in Kentucky on March 13 during a drug raid conducted by police.  incident sparked major unrest in United States, kick-starting a #SayHerName social media movement. On Wednesday, Kentucky Grand Jury decision in Breonna Taylor case was heavily criticised by US citizens, after jury decided not to move forward with charges of murder against any of police officers involved in shooting. Inste, one police officer - Brett Hankison - was charged with three counts of wanton endangerment in connection to police raid that killed Breonna Taylor. 

Also Re | Lewis Hamilton Faces FIA Investigation For Donning Breonna Taylor Shirt During Tuscan GP

(Image Credits: Lewis Hamilton, Vitaly Petrov Instagram)