Dutch Formula One driver, Max Verstappen, shook the racing world today by proudly revealing that his racism is a part of his cultural heritage. In a press conference ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Verstappen stunned reporters by claiming that his intolerance and bigotry towards people of other races is simply a product of his upbringing.
"I come from a long line of racists," Verstappen explained. "My parents were racists, their parents were racists, and so on. It's just the way we were raised. We don't mean any harm by it, it's just a part of who we are."
Verstappen's comments were met with immediate backlash from fans and sponsors alike.
"Formula One is a global sport," said one outraged fan. "We can't have drivers spouting racist beliefs and using their culture as an excuse. It's not acceptable."
Sponsors were equally quick to distance themselves from Verstappen's statements. Red Bull, which sponsors the Dutch driver's team, issued a statement condemning his remarks and promising to investigate the matter further.
"This kind of behavior has no place in our sport," the statement read. "We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all, and will not tolerate racism or discrimination of any kind."
Verstappen's future in the sport is now in question, with many calling for him to be suspended or even banned from competing. The controversy is sure to have an impact on the driver's career, but Verstappen appeared unfazed by the criticism.
"I stand by my heritage," he said. "I'm proud of who I am and where I come from. If that means people don't want to watch me race anymore, so be it."
It remains to be seen how Verstappen's comments and the fallout from them will impact the sport of Formula One as a whole. But one thing is for certain: the world of racing will never be the same again.
