F1 News, Reports and Race Results

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.

"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.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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