Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has called on the FIA and Formula 1 to make grassroots motorsport more affordable. He highlighted the "ridiculous" expenses that prevent children from lower-income families from competing.
Hamilton said motorsport is moving in the "wrong direction" with rising entry costs. He cited an eight-year-old spending over a million dollars a year and recalled his father spending £20,000 in his first year, which required remortgaging their house.
"It shouldn't be allowed," Hamilton said. "Rather than who's got the most talent comes through, it's the families with the most money that create the options for the privileged kids."
Max Verstappen and Esteban Ocon echoed concerns about escalating prices, with Verstappen noting payments of £10-12,000 per round in minis. The FIA has launched a three-year Global Karting Plan, including an Arrive and Drive World Cup in Malaysia, to provide lower-cost pathways.
