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Hamilton condemns 'cowardly' anti-LGBTQ+ law in Hungary

Ahead of this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton has spoken out against the Magyar government's new anti-LGBTQ+ law which he has called "unacceptable and cowardly".

The government of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban introduced earlier this month a new law banning the representation of homosexuals or transgender individuals in schools or entertainment programs destined to under 18-year-olds.

In the wake of the adoption of the new discriminatory law in Hungary, the European Parliament voted in favour of urgent legal action against the country, insisting the law was "another example of the gradual dismantling of fundamental rights in Hungary".

Hungary has said that it will hold a referendum on the controversial issue by early 2022.

Ahead of this weekend's 11th round of the F1 world championship in Budapest, Hamilton took to social media on Thursday to denounce Hungary's new anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.

Read also: Hamilton and Mercedes launch joint charity supporting diversity

"To all in this beautiful country Hungary. Ahead of the Grand Prix this weekend, I want to share my support for those affected by the governments' anti-LGBTQ+ law. It is unacceptable, cowardly and misguiding for those in power suggest such a law," wrote the seven-time F1 world champion.

"Everyone deserves to have the freedom to be themselves, no matter who they love or how they identify. I urge the people of Hungary to vote in the upcoming referendum to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, they need our support more than ever.

"Please show love for those around you because Love will always win. Sending positivity. #lgbtq"

Since Orban's access to power in Hungary in 2010, the country's government has introduced a number of measures considered as discriminatory by the international community.

In December 2020, the Hungarian parliament banned same-sex couples from adopting children, while earlier this year, it adopted legislation preventing people from legally changing their gender.

Hungary also does not recognise gay marriage.

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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.