Formula One (F1) driver Lewis Hamilton has described Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior as ‘brave’ over how the Brazilian ace handled his racial abuse by Valencia supporters.

The Brazilian was able to fight back the racist abuse he received from the fans during Real Madrid’s 1-0 La Liga defeat. Hamilton said that hearing about the incident brought back bad memories for him.

One of the high points of Valencia’s victory against the La Liga giants was the supporters’ racial attack on the Brazilian winger, who was eventually sent off for violent conduct, but the red card was rescinded earlier this week.

Hamilton revealed that he was once the target of racist abuse in his career.

“It’s devastating to think that in 2023 we’re still seeing and hearing these things,” he said.

“It really hits home for me; it really brings up emotions about things that I experienced, whether it’s back in the UK or when I was racing in Italy, France, or Spain. It can be so hurtful to hear the things that people say. I think he’s been incredibly brave.”