Hamilton expects gesture of unity by drivers on Sunday

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Lewis Hamilton expects drivers to take a united stand against racism before this Sunday's Austrian Grand Prix, although it has not yet been decided whether the collective gesture would involve taking a knee.

Formula 1's return to action in these troubled times comes against a backdrop of initiatives against racial injustice launched by the sport, Mercedes and Hamilton himself.

McLaren's Lando Norris hinted at drivers taking a knee on Sunday's grid, but Hamilton says the symbolic gesture against racism is currently "not at the top of my mind".

Hamilton: Fellow drivers not the target of 'staying silent' rant

"I have been asked the question multiple times and it has not really been a priority for me to come with a plan to come and kneel at the start line. So we'll see Sunday," said the sic-time world champion ahead of this weekend's opening race of the 2020 season.

"I’m sure as drivers we will stand to represent something. Whatever we do, we will try to do it united.

"I think it’s really important that we remain united, or we become united I would say also in this sport. We really do have to fight for the injustices and the inequality."

Hamilton underscored the importance of the motorsport community sustaining its efforts to improve diversity and inclusion on a continual basis.

"Whether or not it’s sustainable, it has to be. This is the whole point of me mentioning it," he added.

"We have to stay on it. Black people don’t have the privilege of being able to take a moment out. It is something we have to stay on top off; the industry has to stay on top of.

"We all have to come together, each of our voices is powerful and if we bring them together collectively, we can have a huge impact."

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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.