Be Nice to the Drivers
Be nice to Alex Albon. Be nice to Alex because he’s young, and he’s new, and I promise you he’s trying his best. Be nice to Alex because he’s worked just as hard and deserves his spot on that grid just as much as any other driver. Be nice to Alex because he’s had to meet unbearable expectations, but managed to bear all of them on inexperienced shoulders. Be nice to Alex because he would be nice to you.
Be nice to Lewis Hamilton. Be nice to Lewis because he’s given his heart, soul, and body for this sport. Be nice to Lewis because he is a man of change, action, honor, and respect. Be nice to Lewis because he puts the world before himself. Be nice to Lewis because underneath the intimidating exterior is a kind man who just wants to put some good into the world. Be nice to Lewis because he values kindness above all else.
Be nice to Sebastian Vettel. Be nice to Sebastian because he’s stronger than we recognize and softer than the media would ever have you believe. Be nice to Sebastian because he’s been through hell and come out holding a trophy. Be nice to Sebastian because he can light up the paddock with a single smile and pat on the arm. Be nice to Sebastian because too many aren’t.
Be nice to Lando Norris. Be nice to Lando because despite being a world-famous F1 driver, he’s still just a 20 year old trying to find himself. Be nice to Lando because as much as he’s a soft, giggly, dorky mess of a muppet, he works extremely hard on the track every race, and it shows in his progress. Be nice to Lando because he deserves nothing but kindness.
Be nice to Max Verstappen. Be nice to Max because he’s working so hard every single week, all while facing immense pressure from his team, from the world, and from the reality of growing up. Be nice to Max because he’s finally allowed his giddy nature to break through his hard exterior. Be nice to Max because he thrives on companionship and laughter. Be nice to Max because kindness makes him better.
Be nice to Daniel Ricciardo. Be nice to Daniel because, in the midst of his charming personality and giant smile, we often forget just how much he has gone through. Be nice to Daniel because he’s one of the most genuine, caring, and open people on the grid. Be nice to Daniel because he’s a force to be recognized but never to be afraid of. Be nice to Daniel because behind all the laughter, he’s human, too.
Be nice to Charles Leclerc. Be nice to Charles because of all the traumatic events a person can experience, he went through many at a painfully young age. Be nice to Charles because he’s worked his time away over the years, all without losing the sweet, hopeful side of himself. Be nice to Charles because he’s not just a model, or a pretty boy, or someone to mock, or compare to others. Be nice to Charles because he still is, after everything.
Be nice to Pierre Gasly. Be nice to Pierre because becoming a trend for a moment isn’t the same as gaining support. Be nice to Pierre because he was tossed aside once, but he picked himself up and carried on, already set on improving his future. Be nice to Pierre because his words are always kind and his heart is pure, and the way the world sees him should work to build that up. Be nice to Pierre because he wants you to want to see him succeed.
Be nice to all the drivers. Be nice to the drivers because even if they aren’t your favorite, they are somebody’s, and even if they aren’t somebody’s favorite, they are real and they are human and they are worthy of love and respect. Be nice to the drivers because they risk their lives every single race to provide entertainment and the least we can do is be supportive. Be nice to the drivers because kindness begets kindness begets kindness. Be nice to the drivers because this sport is toxic enough at times, and we, as the fans, should take our part in making improvements wherever possible. Be nice to the drivers because why are you even in the fandom if you so dislike the very people creating it?
