Lewis Hamilton is used to taking a stand on the subjects that are close to his heart.
Thus, last December, the seven-time world champion called on Saudi Arabia to respect human rights on its soil.
“There are changes to be made,” he said.
A message that will have been heard, at least by part of the population.
As the Mercedes driver prepares to return to Saudi territory, on the occasion of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the first free practice of which takes place this Friday, the seven-time world champion was arrested by members of the a family via a letter relayed by The Guardian, one of the main British daily newspapers.
He is asked to speak about the fate of their son Abdullah al-Howaiti, sentenced to death for the theft of a jewelry store that led to the death of a police officer.
"Our cries for justice have not been heard," he said.
Maybe if you say his name, those who decide his fate will listen.
Will you raise your voice to save Abdullah?
The English media specifies that the condemned man has suffered numerous tortures since his incarceration.
Like the letter from a prisoner in Bahrain - whose Grand Prix took place last week - who had thanked him for his commitment, those close to Abdullah hope to receive help from Lewis Hamilton.
“Whether in private conversations with the authorities or in public while you are here in Saudi Arabia to run, we believe it can make a difference,” they insist.
Before the Grand Prix in Bahrain, the director of the Bahrain Institute for the rights of democracy had questioned the decision of the leaders of Formula 1, to sign a new contract going until 2026. While neglecting the shortcomings human rights in that same country.
This time, it is the NGO Reprieve which accuses F1 of minimizing the acts committed on Saudi soil.
"By participating in races in Saudi Arabia, Formula 1 is effectively saying that it is acceptable to execute people for taking part in pro-democracy protests," she wrote.