Lewis Hamilton shared an update on the summer break from Morocco, which sparked strong reactions from some followers.
The seven-time champion has recently been reinvigorated by a breakthrough home win at the British Grand Prix and a string of positive results and he appears to be taking that energy with him into his summer travels, although one particular activity has not gone down well.
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Africa is the only permanently inhabited continent that does not currently host an F1 race, but Hamilton is vociferously calling for that to change.
The 1993 South African Grand Prix was the sport’s last foray into the African continent, but Hamilton has since spent two summer breaks travelling around Africa.
How did fans react to Hamilton’s post?
In 2022, Hamilton described his trip through Africa as “life-changing” and “grounding,” and this year’s trip seems to have struck a similar chord: The 39-year-old described himself on Instagram as someone who feels “more centered and at peace with each passing day.”
The 105-time race winner released a series of photos from his first stop in Morocco, including some epic desert landscapes.
However, a picture of him riding a camel has provoked strong reactions from some fans.
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Animal rights group PETA considers camel riding to be unethical and cruel, but the charity Born Free says the practice is fine as long as the animals are properly cared for and the tours are conducted responsibly and ethically.
The debate also spread to the comments section of Hamilton’s post, where some fans criticized the driver for “exploiting” the animals.
Referring to Hamilton’s eating habits, one fan wrote: “Vegans don’t ride animals or support animal cruelty. What a disgrace Lewis!”, while another said: “Save them. They’re not machines!”
One fan wrote that he had been inspired by Hamilton since 2007 but was “really disappointed” by the post. “Riding a camel or any other animal is something no one should do, especially a vegan. We always have the chance to learn from our mistakes. I hope you consider this,” he concluded.
Some fans jumped to the superstar’s defense. One wrote in response: “There always has to be someone who complains. Let the champion have his fun on the camel,” and another said: “It’s a historic mode of transport (and) an experience, just like horses are still a recreational activity. You can leave your feelings alone. Such a load of nonsense.”
Hamilton did not respond to the criticism.
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