Title: How to create a more inclusive and diverse organisation
To: Management of Mercedes Benz
From: Lewis Hamilton
Subject: Inclusion at Mercedes Benz
Date: 10 December 2025
The aim of this report is to describe the importance of inclusion and diversity and
to advise on how Mercedes Benz can contribute to building a more inclusive and
diverse organisation.
First of all, it is important to define what is meant by diversity and inclusion.
Diversity is commonly defined as the representation of individuals with a wide
range of backgrounds including differences in ethnicity, gender, age, religion,
ability, and more. Inclusion, on the other hand, refers to the extent to which
individuals are made to feel welcomed, respected, and able to participate equally
in society. For motor racing drivers, who are often excluded and underrespected,
meaningful inclusion can lead to greater opportunities, wellbeing, and a sense of
belonging.
My own experiences in motorsport show why diversity and inclusion are so
important. Throughout my career, I have often been the only Black driver in
Formula 1. Growing up in karting and later entering the higher levels of racing, I
regularly felt the impact of being underrepresented. The Hamilton Commission
later confirmed that many young people from similar backgrounds face
disadvantages long before they reach motorsport. Knowing this strengthened my
mission to help create a sport where everyone has a fair chance, no matter their
background.
At present, many young people who want to enter motorsport still struggle to find
a clear path forward. They often lack information, guidance, and accessible
opportunities to develop their skills. This means that talented individuals can
easily be overlooked. Mercedes-Benz already supports young talent through
mentoring and training programmes, but there is still room to expand these
efforts. With more structured support and better access to education and
development, more young people will be able to grow into the sport.
To promote a truly inclusive organisation it is recommended that Mercedes Benz
takes the following actions. First, a training school should be implemented to
teach drivers how they can develop their skills and grow in a supportive
environment. Additionally, new programmes can be developed to give young
talents more opportunities to enter motor sport. Furthermore, guidance can help
to make their progress more equal. Finally, clear communication about these
initiatives is important to make Mercedes Benz tangible and credible.
Of all the recommended actions, the training school should be developed first.
Mercedes Benz could launch a campaign that clearly demonstrates that everyone
is welcomed and valued in motor sport. Using social media, community events,
and partnerships with schools will help to ensure that the message will reach all
relevant communities. A slogan such as “Together we move forward” can
symbolise the values equality, inclusion, and belonging. By implementing these
recommendations, Mercedes Benz can raise awareness of these initiatives, a
lasting culture can now be fostered.
To: Management of Mercedes Benz
From: Lewis Hamilton
Subject: Inclusion at Mercedes Benz
Date: 10 December 2025
The aim of this report is to describe the importance of inclusion and diversity and
to advise on how Mercedes Benz can contribute to building a more inclusive and
diverse organisation.
First of all, it is important to define what is meant by diversity and inclusion.
Diversity is commonly defined as the representation of individuals with a wide
range of backgrounds including differences in ethnicity, gender, age, religion,
ability, and more. Inclusion, on the other hand, refers to the extent to which
individuals are made to feel welcomed, respected, and able to participate equally
in society. For motor racing drivers, who are often excluded and underrespected,
meaningful inclusion can lead to greater opportunities, wellbeing, and a sense of
belonging.
My own experiences in motorsport show why diversity and inclusion are so
important. Throughout my career, I have often been the only Black driver in
Formula 1. Growing up in karting and later entering the higher levels of racing, I
regularly felt the impact of being underrepresented. The Hamilton Commission
later confirmed that many young people from similar backgrounds face
disadvantages long before they reach motorsport. Knowing this strengthened my
mission to help create a sport where everyone has a fair chance, no matter their
background.
At present, many young people who want to enter motorsport still struggle to find
a clear path forward. They often lack information, guidance, and accessible
opportunities to develop their skills. This means that talented individuals can
easily be overlooked. Mercedes-Benz already supports young talent through
mentoring and training programmes, but there is still room to expand these
efforts. With more structured support and better access to education and
development, more young people will be able to grow into the sport.
To promote a truly inclusive organisation it is recommended that Mercedes Benz
takes the following actions. First, a training school should be implemented to
teach drivers how they can develop their skills and grow in a supportive
environment. Additionally, new programmes can be developed to give young
talents more opportunities to enter motor sport. Furthermore, guidance can help
to make their progress more equal. Finally, clear communication about these
initiatives is important to make Mercedes Benz tangible and credible.
Of all the recommended actions, the training school should be developed first.
Mercedes Benz could launch a campaign that clearly demonstrates that everyone
is welcomed and valued in motor sport. Using social media, community events,
and partnerships with schools will help to ensure that the message will reach all
relevant communities. A slogan such as “Together we move forward” can
symbolise the values equality, inclusion, and belonging. By implementing these
recommendations, Mercedes Benz can raise awareness of these initiatives, a
lasting culture can now be fostered.
