Lockdown incites Hamilton to denounce animal captivity

Lewis Hamilton says the COVID-19 lockdown endured by many around the world isn't unlike the fate suffered by wild animals living in captivity.

This week, the UK joined several European countries in confinement amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Reflecting on the restrictive measures, Hamilton took to Instagram to post a story featuring a panda in a small enclosure and ask his almost 15 million followers to consider zoos and pitiful prisons for animals in captivity.

• Hamilton shocked by 'irresponsible and selfish' socializing

"If you are home on lockdown, perhaps you can feel a little of what the animals in captivity go through every day, their entire lives stopped from them," he said.

"In future, please don’t go to any zoos or circuses because this is what our money goes to supporting. #nomorezoos #freedom."

A strict vegan since 2017, Hamilton has often used his fame to promote animal-rights issues. Earlier this month, the six-time world champion visited WIRES Wildlife Rescue Organization in Australia - an animal rescue non-profit organization which he supported - to witness for himself the massive devastation caused by the country's wildfires.

After the recent cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix, Hamilton underwent a two-week period of self-isolation in Melbourne when it came to light that he had come in contact at an event in London with individuals that had tested positive for COVID-19, including actor Idris Elba.

Since, the six-time world champion has called out the "irresponsible and selfish" behavior of those who continue to socialize amid the current coronavirus crisis.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter