Formula 1 launches #WeRaceAsOne initiative against global racism

With fans, teams and drivers standing by for the start of the eagerly anticipated 2020 Formula One season in the wake of the global coronavirus pandemic, the sport is keen to help in the battle against another big issue facing the world today in the fight against racism.

Formula One is already leading the way in green issues, launching a sustainability strategy to make the sport net zero carbon by 2030, and teams have also pulled together over recent months to make its technology available in the fight against COVID-19.

Now, with the launch of a new #WeRaceAsOne initiative, Formula One is united in its condemnation of racism and inequality that has come to light over the past month.

We must return with added purpose and determination to tackle the major issues that we as a sport, but also society, are facing.

Today we make our commitment to addressing those issues.#WeRaceAsOne #F1 pic.twitter.com/wXbbNiw8tD

— Formula 1 (@F1) June 22, 2020

“We believe that as the first international sport to return we can make a difference and use our voice to address these vital issues. As a member of the global FIA motor sport family, we acknowledge its Fundamental Principles Statutes, including the fight against any form of discrimination,” read the official Formula One statement. “That is why today, ahead of our season start, Formula 1 announces our new #WeRaceAsOne initiative, in support of the #PurposeDriven Movement launched by the FIA last week.

“This initiative will be the platform for the priorities set out above and is aimed at tackling the biggest issues facing our sport and global communities. It will not be a one week or one-year theme that disappears as issues disappear from headlines, it will underpin the Formula 1 strategy to make a tangible difference in our sport and society.”

With the first race of the truncated 2020 season kicking off with the first of two Austrian Grands Prix at the Red Bull Ring, Formula 1 cars will be displaying rainbows on their liveries sporting the hashtag #WeRaceAsOne, with the rainbow initiative continuing throughout the season.

“Our first race in Austria at the start of July is a big moment for our sport after nearly four months of no racing. While it is an important moment for the Formula 1 community it is also a time to recognise the issues that are bigger than any one sport or country,” added Chase Carey, Chairman and CEO of Formula 1.

We're proud to support the #WeRaceAsOne initiative alongside our friends and colleagues in the @F1 paddock 🤜🤛

We stand together for inclusion, equality and sustainability – and in the ongoing fight against COVID-19 🌈https://t.co/j2xxMrZjHX

— BWT Racing Point F1 Team (@RacingPointF1) June 22, 2020

“The #WeRaceAsOne initiative we have launched today, in support of the #PurposeDriven Movement launched by the FIA last week, is our way of saying thank you to the bravery and unity everyone around the world has shown during this unprecedented time. It will also be a platform for Formula 1 to come together and achieve results against the most important issues facing us as a sport and the world.

“That is why at our first race in Austria Formula 1 will stand united to say loud and clear that racism must end. We will show our full support in fighting inequality throughout the weekend and accelerate our own efforts to make Formula 1 more diverse and inclusive. As a global sport we must represent the diversity and social concerns of our fans, but we also need to listen more and understand what needs to be done and get on with delivering.”