Chief F1 writer.
Last updated at 1 hour ago.
Lewis Hamilton has worn a number of different T-shirts at races to raise awareness of human rights issues.
Dates in November. The Losail International Circuit is located.
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Lewis Hamilton says that Formula 1 is obliged to raise awareness of human rights issues at the first grand prix in the country.
F1 could help promote change by racing in countries such as Saudi Arabia, according to the sport's boss.
"As sports go to these places, they are duty-bound to raise awareness for these issues."
These places need to be looked at. Equal rights are a serious issue.
The season of Formula 1 is about to start.
There is GP coverage on the BBC.
The most lucrative contract in F1 will be signed by the state of Qatar in 2023.
Saudi Arabia will be on the calendar in two weeks.
Hamilton said that it can't change overnight in this place.
The human rights situation in both countries is extremely troubling.
The restriction on free speech and treatment of migrant workers in the country has been criticized.
The kafala system, which governed workers' relationships with their employers, was abolished in the country.
He wished more sportsmen and women would speak out.
One person can only make a small difference, but collectively we can have a bigger impact.
I've been to a lot of these countries and have not been aware of some of the problems.
It's down to whether you educate yourself and hold the sport more accountable and make sure the sport is actually doing something about it when it goes to these places.
"That's why I've tried to raise my voice, but there are better people that are knowledgeable on these issues that are trying to fight them in the background."
I still think we can bring a spotlight to it and create that scrutiny and pressure that will hopefully change it.
Valtteri said he believed that F1 and Mercedes were pushing hard to raise awareness of situations around the world.
Four-time champion Sebastian Vettel said that it's not the first big event held in here or in other places. Every big sport has a responsibility.
