Four members of staff have been sacked by Formula 1 team Mercedes. and Three more staffers were also disciplined for breaching the company’s diversity rules.
An inquiry into a complaint about racist bullying of a Muslim employee opened in July led to the firing of four workers, who are said to be from the company’s IT department.
One colleague was allegedly called a “Muslim terrorist f***”.
Then, during Ramadan, a poll was put up in a staff area on when the man would “break” the religious fast.
It is understood that workers guessed dates and put their names next to them.
A source said: “This was a really horrible case of racist bullying.
“They had been picking on one Muslim guy for years. It all came to light when they pinned up the poll. The guys who were sacked had all signed and dated it. It’s outrageous, especially with Lewis being so outspoken about racism.
Hamilton, the first ever black Formula One driver has been vociferous in speaking out against racism and slammed Montenegro fans for abusing England players when the teams played last March.
He said: “it is crazy to think that at this time in the world, racism is still such a prominent thing.”
Mercedes-AMG said: “An internal investigation confirmed breaches of our diversity and equality policy.
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Mercedes have won the last five constructors’ and drivers’ championships in Formula 1, with Lewis Hamilton looking likely to add another crown this season.
“Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd confirms that four individuals were dismissed from the company on 2 August 2019,” a statement from Mercedes-AMG said.
“These dismissals followed an internal investigation that confirmed breaches of our Diversity and Equality Policy.
“We condemn this behaviour in the strongest terms and acted immediately upon the complaint. We value the diversity of our employees and it is a source of strength for our team.
“The diversity of our employees is a source of strength for our team.”
Lewis, 34, is qualifying in Sochi for tomorrow’s Russian Grand Prix.
“Our working environment is based on appreciation and mutual respect.”
