Max Verstappen has condemned the racial slur used by his girlfriend's father Nelson Piquet in reference to his 2021 Formula 1 title rival Lewis Hamilton.
Footage from last year emerged showing former F1 world champion Piquet speaking about the British Grand Prix crash involving the two title contenders that season. While Verstappen was referred to by name, he used a slang variation of the n-word in reference to Hamilton.
Piquet apologised for any offence caused but claimed that there was no racist intent by his use of the word. Meanwhile his daughter Kelly, who is currently in a relationship with Verstappen, liked a social media post from a relative in which Piquet's use of the word was defended.
Asked upon his arrival in the British Grand Prix paddock at Silverstone if he condemned the behaviour of his partner's father, Verstappen responded: "In general, I think [racism occurs] all over the world – it's not only in Formula 1.
"It is not correct to use these words, but I think that it really starts with education nowadays, from a younger age. At home and at school, you need to be taught that these kinds of things cannot be said or used in general. That's what we are working on. Of course, F1 in general and Lewis... they are working on that for the future. And all the drivers are behind that – we are all supporting that."
In a separate interview, though, Verstappen leapt to the defence of his partner's father by claiming he is a "nice guy" and "not a racist". "He's actually a really nice and relaxed guy," said the Dutchman, before adding: "The wording which was used – even though there are different kinds of cultures and it's probably something they said when they were younger – was not correct."
Defending his use of the offensive term, Piquet said: "I would never use the word I have been accused of in some translations. I strongly condemn any suggestion that the word was used by me with the aim of belittling a driver because of his skin colour.
“I apologise wholeheartedly to anyone that was affected, including Lewis, who is an incredible driver. But the translation in some media that is now circulating on social media is not correct. Discrimination has no place in F1 or society and I am happy to clarify my thoughts in that respect."
That apology has not been enough to appease motorsport bosses, though, as the British Racing Drivers Club acted swiftly to suspend the Brazilian's honorary membership and ban him from Silverstone. The FIA is yet to announce any sanctions against Piquet, but the sport's governing body is expected to ban him from appearances at future F1 races.
