Hamilton and Bottas to race a special Mercedes livery to support diversity

The Mercedes Silver Arrows will make way for a black-base livery on the W11 when Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas take to the track for the first F1 race of the season on Friday.

The Brackley-based outfit surprised the F1 world by announcing their special livery as a 'signal of the team's commitment to fighting racism and discrimination in all its forms" on Monday.

Six-time world champion Hamilton and team-mate Bottas will also sport black overalls for the first race in Austria, and will also wear special helmets.

Hamilton, who has been vocal in support of anti-racism protests, said he was proud of the team for supporting such a vital cause.

“It’s so important that we seize this moment and use it to educate ourselves whether you are an individual, brand or company to make real meaningful changes when it comes to ensuring equality and inclusivity,” said Hamilton.

“I have personally experienced racism in my life and seen my family and friends experience racism, and I am speaking from the heart when I appeal for change. When I spoke to Toto about my hopes for what we could achieve as a team, I said it was so important that we stand united.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to Toto (Wolff, Mercedes team boss) and the Mercedes board for taking the time to listen, to talk, and to really understand my experiences and passion, and for making this important statement that we are willing to change and improve as a business.

"We want to build a legacy that goes beyond sport, and if we can be the leaders and can start building more diversity within our own business, it will send such a strong message and give others the confidence to begin a dialogue about how they can implement change.”

Teams will get back on track for the first free practice session in Austria on Friday morning.