Williams charger Nicholas Latifi has been named as an ambassador for the Cybersmile foundation, an international nonprofit organization committed to tackling all forms of cyberbullying and digital abuse.
Latifi was the victim of a wave of online abuse after last December's controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in which the Canadian inadvertently played a role in the title decider's outcome as it was his crash late in the race that triggered the Safety Car period that would seal the fate of the 2022 world championship.
In the aftermath of the race, a deluge of nefarious messages were immediately sent Latifi's way on social media by their senseless authors.
Earlier this year, Latifi revealed that when the online abuse escalated and turned into death threats, he was forced to hire a security detail to ensure his protection.
The personal experience and the positive support he received from the F1 community and his fans has encouraged him to team up with Cybersmile to take a stand against cyberbullying and help make the online world a safer place.
"One of the things that struck me hardest during the winter is the reality that many people face cyberbullying and online abuse alone, or don't have the knowledge of how to deal with a situation and regain control," said Latifi.
"For me, that's something that has to change. I'm determined to do what I can to help – especially around efforts to promote kindness, diversity and inclusion.
"Having spoken to Scott Freeman, the Cybersmile Foundation CEO, it's clear that his team understands how cyberbullying can manifest itself in multiple complex forms and, for me, the education, support and advice they offer to those that are experiencing problems online have the power to drive real, positive change.
"I'll be working with Cybersmile during the coming weeks to develop our collaborative plan together and I'll be sure to tell you about what we decide."
Latifi and Cybersmile will announce further details of the work they will undertake together in the coming weeks.
"This is the first time I’ve done anything like this before, but I can honestly say I’m excited about the journey that lies ahead and what we can achieve," added the 26-year-old.
"Thanks again for all the messages of support that have come my way in the last few months. It means a lot."
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