On Thursday, Lewis Hamilton said that there was a “racial element” to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s recent remarks about drivers using profanity during Formula 1 races.

In an interview with motorsport.com, Ben Sulayem said, “we must distinguish between our sport—motorsport—and rap music,” in relation to drivers’ need to refrain from using profanity over the radio.

“We are not rappers,” said Ben Sulayem.

In response to the comments before to Sunday’s Singapore Grand Prix, seven-time champion Hamilton stated: “I disapprove of the manner in which he articulated his thoughts.” Referring to individuals as ‘rappers’ is very stereotyped.

“Upon reflection, the majority of rappers are of African descent.” It states, ‘We are unlike to them.’ I believe such statements are inappropriate and include a racist undertone.

Hamilton, the only Black driver in Formula 1, expressed his worries over the use of profanity.

I believe there is an excess of it. I agree that it needs tidying up. However, it is also beneficial to express some emotion. “We are not automatons,” said the Mercedes driver.

The FIA did not promptly reply to a request for commentary.

Previous disputes have occurred between Hamilton and Ben Sulayem. They previously disagreed about the FIA president’s efforts to impose a prohibition on wearing jewelry while driving.

In March, Hamilton said that Ben Sulayem has “never had” his support, when addressing a legal conflict at the time between Susie Wolff, director of the all-female youth racing series F1 Academy, and the FIA.

Defending champion Max Verstappen said on Thursday that occasional expletives over the radio are justifiable due to the pressures faced by F1 drivers, and that the choice to broadcast such communications including profanity is the more significant concern.

“I believe it begins with refraining from publicizing it.” He said, “If you do not disseminate it, no one will be aware, only the team.”