We want equality for everyone - Vettel
The recent Hungarian Grand Prix was an incredible spectacle even by Formula 1's standards. However, an image taken before it started may be its greatest legacy.
The race had everything: Esteban Ocon's shock win and Lewis Hamilton alone starting at the start.
However, there was another moment that grabbed headlines all over the globe.
Sebastian Vettel, a protester against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation introduced by Hungary's government, wore a Pride shirt during the pre-race national song ceremony.
The four-time world champion discusses why he took a stand and what he hopes it will do to make a difference.
Vettel states that she was not embarrassed or nervous by the rainbow colours or what people think. Vettel says, "I wanted to convey a message and it was something I was proud of."
"It doesn’t matter with whom you fall in love"
Vettel competed in Hungary wearing an orange racing helmet with a rainbow design
Vettel's decision wasn't impulsive.
Aston Martin's driver knew Formula 1 was heading to Hungary this summer. The country's government was seen as hostile to the LGBTQ+ community. It passed a law earlier in the year that prohibited the promotion of homosexuality or transgender issues at schools.
The European Parliament voted to take legal action against the new law in the weeks leading up to the grand prix. Viktor Orban, Hungary's Prime Minister, responded that school policy was a matter for Hungary and not Brussels bureaucrats.
Vettel recalls seeing in the news that the current government isn't the most progressive on certain issues. Vettel spoke to the BBC via Zoom.
"There was much debate over the laws that prevent all ages from accessing a healthy education. Some parts were left out. This I believe is totally wrong.
"So, the idea was born to have this moment before race where we can put out certain messages. I thought it was an excellent opportunity to send out small signs."
This is exactly what the German did.
A rainbow was visible sweeping across his racing helmet and his trainers. He was wearing a Pride-coloured mask as he walked around track. And that T-shirt with the message "Same Love"?
Vettel said, "It's Macklemore's name and it I believe it explains in an attractive way many of the wrong perceptions people have."
"It doesn’t matter what skin color you have, or your background. It doesn’t matter where you are from. It doesn’t matter with whom you fall in love. You just want the same treatment for everyone."
"It meant a lot for me"
Matt Bishop worked for McLaren for 10 years and was Communications Director for the W Series until he joined Aston Martin in January.
Matt Bishop, Aston Martin’s chief communications officer and a veteran of F1 as well as a founding-ambassador for Racing Pride, was moved by Vettel's actions. External-link
Bishop jokes that he was the only gay person in F1 village when he arrived almost 30 years ago.
"Now, I'm not that, but LGBTQ+ persons in Formula 1 remain a rare breed. It is very encouraging to find someone like Seb, a straight man, who understands the importance of being able to live and let life happen and to love and make love to anyone you choose. This is what we call allyship and, as Sebastian said, it meant a lot.
After Vettel's actions, support messages came from all over the LGBTQ+ community, as well as Lewis Hamilton who posted an Instagram message promising to "join us next time with the exact shirt".
Vettel admits that he was shocked by the magnitude of the deal.
"Ideally, there would be no reaction. It's normal.
"Some countries are still debating whether gay marriage should or shouldn't be legal. You know, I believe there is enough marriage for everyone. Straight people don't care if gay people can get married, but gay people should be allowed to marry like everyone else.
"So yeah, it surprised me - but it shows there's still so many things that need to be done."
What about those who believed that Aston Martin should continue racing and that politics and sport shouldn’t be mixed?
Vettel: "I get it."
"I grew-up in the sport and had many discussions with experts, media, and communications. You've probably heard this phrase a few times. Are we really talking about politics when we are talking about human rights? It's not my opinion.
"I believe there are topics that you cannot ignore or deny. Some topics are so vast that they can be found everywhere. Everyone needs to be aware.
"Just push the door open... You will be a star"
Vettel is the latest and most prominent sportsman to support the LGBTQ+ community. He joins Jordan Henderson, Liverpool captain, and James Haskell, ex-England rugby player.
Bishop states, "I was not surprised that LGBTQ+ people would accept Sebastian to their hearts."
"But it's especially important when someone is well-known for being a straight family man.
"And I'll tell it to you. A Formula 1 driver who is gay becomes the most beloved sports star in the world if he drives for a winning team and is a Formula 1 driver.
"So, if someone is in Formula 3/Ferrule 2 and is nervous, push the door open. You will be a star if you push the door open.
Vettel believes it is important to show an inclusive attitude.
The German states, "If I can inspire, that's great. But in the end, all the environment must be welcoming."
"So, if little things like what my actions did to help raise awareness and show support, that's awesome. We must stop judging people based on their hobbies and what they love. We need to see the people first. Everyone is unique and has beauty.
Let's treat people as we would like to be treated, regardless of their love for one another.
Sebastian Vettel and Matt Bishop spoke to Jack Murley during the BBC's LGBT Sport podcast. BBC Sounds is updated weekly with new episodes.
