The Silver Arrows have just become black. Mercees-AMG Petronas chose a black livery for its racing car this season. What is the reason?
Mercedes-AMG Petranonas switched from silver to black for the 2020 Formula One season in order to show support in the anti-racism and anti-discrimination campaign and encourage diversity within the team.
The move goes even further. Formula One initiated the #WeRaceAsOne fight, while Lewis Hamilton joined street protests after the death of George Floyd.
“Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, our sport or our team: this is a core belief of Mercedes. But having the right beliefs and the right mindset isn’t enough if we remain silent”, says Team Principal Toto Wolff.
Mercedes is the team in which only 3% of the employees belong to minority ethnic groups, while only 12% of the employees are women.
“We will not shy away from our weaknesses in this area, nor from the progress we must still make; our livery is our public pledge to take positive action”, Wolff explains.
The team representatives promise to start a Diversity and Inclusion program before the end of the season.
When will fans see the new Mercedes black racing car?
The car is not the only one changing suit this season. Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas will also wear black overalls and matching helmets.
Fans all over the world will be able to see the cars this upcoming weekend. Formula One resumes following a delay of almost four months, caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
“I have personally experienced racism in my life and seen my family and friends experience racism, and I am speaking from the heart when I appeal for change”, six-time world champion Lewis Hamilton says.
The Brit was the one to ask for further involvement from Toto Wolff and the team in his fight against racism.
