Motorsport: Mercedes reveal Black Lives Matter livery for upcoming Formula One season

The Mercedes F1 car for the 2020 season
The Mercedes F1 car for the 2020 season Photo credit: Image - Mercedes F1

Formula One champions Mercedes have unveiled black-liveried cars for the 2020 season as part of a public pledge to further improve diversity within the team and the world of motorsport.

Mercedes have traditionally raced in silver throughout their time in Formula One, but will switch to black and have 'End Racism' emblazoned on the halo of both cars.

The team said the Black Lives Matter movement has "shone a searching light on how much we need new measures and actions in the fight against racism and all forms of discrimination".

The new livery will make its debut when Britain's world champion Lewis Hamilton and Finnish team mate Valtteri Bottas feature in the season-opening Austrian Grand Prix this weekend.

Mercedes said only 3 per cent of their workforce identified as belonging to minority ethnic groups, while just 12 per cent are women.

Six-times Formula One champion Hamilton said: "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."

Reuters