Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has publicly expressed support for US rapper Macklemore following his removal from the remaining American dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour after making pro-Palestinian remarks.
Responding to an Instagram post in which Macklemore addressed the controversy, Hamilton wrote: “Thank you for using your voice, standing with you.”
Macklemore used the lengthy post to explain his position following his removal from the tour, stressing that he did not consider himself a victim and arguing that attention should remain focused on the human toll of the war in Gaza.
The “Thrift Shop” rapper was dropped from the remaining US shows after making pro-Palestinian statements during performances at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on September 4 and 5.
Tour promoter Messina Touring Group subsequently said venues scheduled to host upcoming concerts would not permit shows featuring Macklemore on the lineup.
Sheeran later distanced himself from the decision, saying Macklemore’s removal had been determined by concert promoters and venue operators rather than by him personally. He said he held his own views about the war but had chosen not to express them publicly.
The controversy has also prompted other artists to leave the tour. Finneas, Lukas Graham and Aaron Rowe subsequently withdrew from scheduled appearances in solidarity with Macklemore.
Hamilton’s intervention adds another prominent international figure to those publicly supporting the rapper following his removal from the tour.