Lewis Hamilton says he is disappointed with former racing drivers’ claims he has become “militant” about the Black Lives Matter campaign and there isn’t a “big problem” with diversity in Formula 1.

The British six-time champion has been a vocal and prominent campaigner against racism since the death of American George Floyd in May.

He performed the Black Power salute on top of his Mercedes car and on top of the podium after winning the Styrian Grand Prix, and has taken a knee before every race this year, urging drivers who have stood to join him.

Hamilton has also launched a commission to encourage more diversity in F1, in which he is the only black driver. F1 have set up their own “We Race As One” initiative.

But speaking before last weekend’s Hungarian Grand Prix, motorsport legend Mario Andretti was quoted as telling Chilean newspaper El Mercurio: “I have a lot of respect for Lewis, but why become a militant? He’s always been accepted and he’s earned everyone’s respect.

“I think the whole point of this is pretentious. I feel that way. And it’s creating a problem that doesn’t exist.”

Hamilton responded to the comments on social media, saying that he has always had respect for Andretti but called on the American to “educate himself”.

“This is disappointing but unfortunately a reality that some of the older generation who still have a voice today cannot get out of their own way and acknowledge there is a problem,” Hamilton wrote on Instagram.

“Again, this is plain ignorance but that will not stop me from continuing to push for change. It is never too late to learn and I hope that this man who I’ve always had respect for can take the time to educate himself.”

Sir Jackie Stewart, meanwhile, denied there was a major racism issue in the sport.

“I think Lewis has been a great example to lots of people,” the Scottish three-time F1 champion said last week.

“He’s quite vocal about these elements, I don’t think there’s as big a problem as there might seem.

“There is no resistance for change if someone is clever and good at what they do. They will be accepted in Formula 1.”

In his following Instagram post, Hamilton wrote: “Again, another one. Just disappointing.”

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