Lewis Hamilton: Don’t tear down trees to build new Brazil F1 track

Lewis Hamilton has criticised Formula 1’s plans to build a new circuit in Brazil as it looks to move away from Interlagos in Sao Paulo.

F1 plans to add a new race in Rio de Janeiro to the calendar with Interlagos out of contract at the end of 2020.

The site where the new circuit will be constructed is in the Camboata Forest and will result in the destruction of approximately 70,000 trees.

Over recent years, Hamilton has been voiced his concerns over climate change and the environment over social media leading him to vast lifestyle changes to align himself with these beliefs, such as the sale of his private jet.

When asked about the proposed circuit in Rio, the reigning world champion believes the development isn’t needed.

“Firstly, I love Brazil, and I think some of my biggest following is in Brazil,” Hamilton said. “The “Brazilian people mean a lot to me, and the support I’ve had there over the years has been immense.

“I was hoping I wasn’t going to get this question because ultimately, my personal opinion is that the world doesn’t need a new circuit. I think there’s plenty of circuits in the world that are great. I love Interlagos.

“I have been to Rio, and it’s a beautiful, beautiful place. Knocking down, I don’t know all the details of it, but I heard that it’s potentially going to be sustainable, but the most sustainable thing you can do is not tear down any trees, particularly in a time where we’re fighting a pandemic, and there continues to be a global crisis around the world.

“I don’t think with deforestation and everything, I don’t think it’s a smart move. I don’t have the details of why, but it’s not something I personally support.”

Hamilton goes into this weekend’s Eifel Grand Prix top of the drivers’ championship and he could potentially equal Michael Schumacher’s win record of 91 with a victory on Sunday.