Chris Harris delves into the underlying racial implications of Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s comments about rap music and Formula 1, exploring how these statements marginalize an entire culture and how voices like Lewis Hamilton’s are essential for addressing these biases and creating a more inclusive future for the sport.
Christopher Harris | AAAA Founder
New York, NY - 9/24/24 - In the world of Formula 1, where innovation and inclusivity should thrive, recent comments made by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem reveal deeply concerning undertones. His comparison of F1’s swearing issue to rap music is not only out of context but an attempt to degrade and separate the culture of rap and hip-hop from the sport. By associating a completely unrelated issue—profanity in F1—with rap, Sulayem reinforces harmful stereotypes and undermines the culture that millions of people, particularly Black and Brown communities, identify with.
Rap and hip-hop have long been cultural forces representing the voices of the marginalized, and dismissing it in such a manner points to a clear racial disconnect. The attempt to detach rap culture from F1 is not just a slight against music; it’s a broader indication of how minorities are often marginalized in elite spaces, I see this as a blatant attempt to maintain Formula 1’s perception as an exclusive, elite sport, devoid of influence from diverse cultures that don’t fit into traditional norms.
This is where representation becomes crucial. Lewis Hamilton, the only Black driver in F1, has continually used his platform to challenge injustices, including comments like these. His presence allows him to stand up for rap, hip-hop, and the people who enjoy it—communities often underrepresented in motorsport. Hamilton’s ability to confront this issue is a testament to why diversity is not just a checkbox but a necessity in every industry, including F1.
When individuals like Lewis, who understand these cultural nuances, have the opportunity to speak out, it brings necessary conversations into the spotlight and provides hope for those who see themselves in both the sport and the music. Diversity in motorsport not only creates a richer, more inclusive environment but also challenges outdated thinking and opens the door for new voices, perspectives, and cultures to be part of the conversation.
Sulayem’s comments serve as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done in dismantling these old narratives. At the AAAA, we believe in the power of inclusivity, and we will continue advocating for representation that allows all voices—whether they’re from the streets or the pit lanes—to be heard and respected in spaces like Formula 1.
Diversity allows us to challenge the stereotypes and the systemic issues that plague industries like motorsport. By keeping voices like Hamilton’s front and center, we not only defend the culture but also create pathways for others to follow, ensuring that motorsports and the automotive world reflects the world we live in—a world that thrives on cultural expression, innovation, and inclusion.
It’s time for F1 and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to recognize that embracing all aspects of culture, including rap and hip-hop, is essential for its future, just as embracing diversity is critical to its growth.