Sebastian Vettel believes Formula 1 would be "powerless" to help LGBTQ+ people in less tolerant countries if they were boycotted by the sport.
The German racer caused a stir at last year's Hungarian Grand Prix as he wore rainbow colours on the grid. It was a purposeful and pointed protest against anti-LGBT legislation which was going through the country's parliament at the time, though it proved unsuccessful as the amendment was passed into law.
He has made similar points in other countries which are less tolerant towards the LGBTQ+ community, such as Saudi Arabia where being gay is a crime, which can land you in prison. Vettel believes continuing to race in these countries gives the sport an unfiltered stage to raise awareness of the issue in front of the local population.
"Formula 1 will put on 22 races in 20 countries this year," he told Attitude magazine. "As far as LGBTQ rights are concerned, there are some countries we visit that are tougher than others. We could refuse to race there – but what then?
"If we don't race we'd be powerless to make any difference at all. But by racing in those countries and politely, but firmly, standing up for what’s important we can have a positive impact. Values and principles can't stop at borders."
Vettel's comments come as he was one of the F1 drivers slammed by FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem for their campaigning. When asked by GrandPrix247 what he believes the sport "should not become", the motorsport tsar replied: "Niki Lauda and Alain Prost only cared about driving. Now, Vettel drives a rainbow bicycle, Lewis is passionate about human rights and [Lando] Norris addresses mental health.
"Everybody has the right to think. To me, it is about deciding whether we should impose our believes in something over the sport all the time. I am from an Arabian culture. I am international and Muslim. I do not impose my beliefs on other people? No way! Never. If you look at my operation in the UAE: 16 nationalities! Name me one federation that has that many nationalities.
"On top, there are over 34% women and 7 religions. And even more Christians than Muslims. I am proud because it creates credibility and merit. But do I go and pose my beliefs? No. The rules are there, even now there are issues when it comes to – for example- jewellery, I didn’t write that."
