Ahmed proudly displayed the famous Hamilton No.1 drawing in Bahrain ahead of Sunday's season opening F1 race. 44 Mercedes car and his own words of hope: Sir Lewis, another F1 where is innocent father on death row. Please spare him.
The 12-year old is the son Mohammed Ramadhan (a former member of Bahrain’s security forces who faces the death penalty).
Ahmed showed The Associated Press the drawing during a Thursday interview in Bahrain. He was accompanied by Zainab Ebrahim, his mother. Ahmed spoke softly about the reasons he made it.
He said, "I did this drawing in order to encourage Lewis." He took a deep inhale and said, "There are many stories Lewis can influence and help to change."
Hamilton stated that he had not yet seen the drawing, but it was sent to him and his team.
Hamilton stated Friday at the Bahrain Grand Prix that he receives letters each year from people who are in pain. Hamilton added, "But every year I receive letters and I try to sympathize with them." I believe the government and those in power must bear the brunt of the change. We need to make use of the platforms that we have in these countries when we visit them, and ensure they have serious discussions about what's going on there.
Hamilton stated previously that F1 was "duty bound" by law to promote awareness of human rights wherever it races. He also believes that drivers must push for long-lasting change.
We have platforms to help raise awareness. Hamilton stated that Hamilton supports the work of many organizations on the ground fighting for human rights. Hamilton said, "But there's still a lot to be done. The world is a mess. Not only did we see more refugees fleeing Ukraine, but also in Syria, Yemen, and Yemen.
Hamilton is also a strong supporter of Black Lives Matter. He used his platform to promote social justice. As a nod Colin Kaepernick’s protests, Hamilton knelt down on one knee and wore a shirt calling justice for Breonna Taylor.
Ahmed previously drew Hamilton's car, and sent it to him in the hope that he could have an impact on his father's fate.
Hamilton was personally written by his father, one of three torture victims.
Mohammed Ramadhan described how he was taken into custody after supporting Bahrain's pro democracy uprising. He was then allegedly made a murder charge and beat with iron bars to get his confession.
Hamilton read the letters and promised to not ignore calls for human rights improvements in Bahrain and other countries hosting F1 races.
Ahmed smiled timidly when Ahmed was asked about Hamilton's efforts. "Lewis, is the best," Ahmed replied. "I was delighted to hear Lewis say that he is willing and able to help those who are in need.
Ahmed's mother hopes Hamilton will shout even louder for those who need it most.
She sat beside her son and said, "Lewis is an influencer and he has the ability to talk to his friends. He can influence Bahraini government officials to reinvestigate and talk about victims." "Maybe they will find justice."
Zainab Ebrahim, her three children and their visits to prison are rare. She explains that the conditions are so strict that they can barely touch their father's hands to feel any connection.
"It's extremely difficult without their dad being here. Ahmed was four years old when their father was arrested and the twins were only two," she stated. Their psychology was greatly affected by that. They have been crying a lot and feeling upset. They ask their father every day."
Hamilton inspired Najah Yusuf, Ali AlHajee and other torture survivors to write to Hamilton in November 2020.
AlHajee is located in Jau prison 7 miles from Hamilton's track on Sunday.
Hamilton is a trending topic in the prison in a very unique way.
AlHajee wrote Hamilton recently that "inmates began to draw or write 'Sir 44" or 'Lewis44' on their clothes. This was to show support for the race while we were watching it." "Prisoners view you as not only a world champion in sports but also as someone who defends their human rights."
Hamilton was moved by the story.
Hamilton stated, "I never thought that I would be able have this kind of impact on people," despite having incredible stories about fighting against a difficult system. Hamilton said, "I try to have serious conversations in the background to improve that system for those who are currently in prison." This is not an easy path to walk. It's dangerous, challenging, and it can lead to difficult relationships. For me, what is most important is to see a brighter future.
Charles, Prince of Wales knighted Hamilton during a ceremony held at Windsor Castle in December.
