British television presenter Jeremy Clarkson has once again taken a subtle dig at Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton, stating that all current F1 racers are “OK bar one.” This comment came via the social media platform X shortly after the Dutch Grand Prix, where Clarkson referenced all drivers except one, widely assumed to be Hamilton, reflecting his ongoing critical stance towards the seven-time world champion. Clarkson’s remark has sparked renewed discussion about his opinions on Hamilton’s career and conduct.
Jeremy Clarkson‘s Comments Following the Dutch Grand Prix Incident
During the Dutch Grand Prix, Kimi Antonelli faced criticism for a controversial move that ended Charles Leclerc’s race. Clarkson briefly weighed in on Antonelli, calling him simply “a teenager” on X. When a fan jokingly labeled George Russell as “a crybaby,” Clarkson responded by defending Russell while indirectly targeting Hamilton in the process.
“Nah. George is OK. They all are. Bar one.”
—Jeremy Clarkson, TV presenter
This statement led many to speculate about which driver Clarkson was singling out. Some fans suggested the Canadian Lance Stroll might be the one criticized, due to previous doubts about his merit in F1. However, Clarkson dismissed this theory in replies on the platform, clarifying Stroll was not the intention behind his comment.
Given Clarkson’s well-documented history of public critiques directed toward Lewis Hamilton, the implication was clear. He has repeatedly expressed disdain towards Hamilton’s perceived hypocrisy and lifestyle choices, which contrasts with his environmental advocacy and social initiatives.
Clarkson’s Previous Criticism of Hamilton’s Lifestyle and Conduct
After Hamilton’s recent switch to Ferrari, Clarkson also offered pointed criticism, specifically highlighting the driver’s choice to arrive at the team headquarters in an SUV while dressed in a suit. He noted the irony in Hamilton’s environmental stance juxtaposed against such decisions. Clarkson further remarked on Hamilton not residing close to Ferrari’s Maranello base, alleging the driver commuted to the factory using a Fiat helicopter from his home in Milan.
These ongoing criticisms reveal a sustained personal grudge Clarkson appears to hold against Hamilton, rooted in what he considers contradictions between Hamilton’s public activism and personal habits.
Jeremy Clarkson’s 2021 Remarks on Hamilton and the Green Movement
Clarkson expanded his critique in a 2021 blog for The Sun, where he portrayed Hamilton as the mouthpiece for the green movement in motorsport—an approach that Clarkson claimed backfired. He suggested the campaign failed to resonate with the broader public, instead alienating many.
“All this might work well on social media but in the real world, where people live, it doesn’t work at all,”
—Jeremy Clarkson, columnist
“And this is a problem for the green movement. They get Lewis to be a mouthpiece thinking he’ll convert the rest of us. But instead, we all just want to throw something at him.”
—Jeremy Clarkson, columnist
These quotes underscore Clarkson’s belief that Hamilton’s environmental and social activism has invited skepticism and hostility rather than genuine support from many fans. Despite this, Hamilton continues his public advocacy for social change and environmental responsibility, maintaining that he either ignores such criticism or uses it to motivate his efforts.
The Broader Context of Clarkson’s Remarks and Their Impact
Jeremy Clarkson’s comments illustrate a deeper tension within the F1 community regarding Lewis Hamilton’s activism and public image. Clarkson, known for his outspoken nature, presents a perspective that contrasts sharply with Hamilton’s growing role as a social and environmental advocate. This ongoing friction draws attention not only to the driver’s sporting performance but also to his off-track persona.
As Hamilton continues competing in Formula 1 and promoting his causes, Clarkson’s remarks will likely persist as part of the broader debate among fans and commentators about the role of athletes in social movements. The divergence in opinions between figures like Clarkson and Hamilton showcases the complicated intersection of sport, activism, and public perception today.
