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Racist taunts made Hamilton's father doubt career

(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-11-04 09:38

LONDON - Anthony Hamilton, father of new Formula One world champion Lewis, said racial taunts and abuse had made him doubt whether his son should be competing in the sport.

McLaren's Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain reacts after his second practice session at Interlagos race track in Sao Paulo October 31, 2008. [Agencies]

"I did think maybe this is not the place for my family," Hamilton senior told Tuesday's Daily Express newspaper. "I have never said it to Lewis, you just go home and think 'I didn't think the world was like this'.

"I don't believe it is a racist thing in all honesty. If it is then I don't understand it. I don't think it is just me that's shocked, I think everyone is shocked."

The 23-year-old Lewis became Formula One's youngest world champion when he finished fifth in Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix.

In the countdown to the race, the McLaren driver was targeted by hate messages posted by racist fans on a Spanish website.

"The positive aspect of this (weekend) is not just for people of our colour, it is for everybody," said Anthony. "The world is in turmoil and I like to think we set an example to remain dignified, have respect for everyone, be honest.

"The booing in the crowd here (Brazil) is maybe something we might not have got in the UK."