Empowering Motorsport Panels

Canadian racecar drivers Demi Chalkias and Marc Lafleur, alongside seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, kicked off the Grand Prix weekend in Montreal last week with an inspiring panel discussion titled "Mavericks of Motorsport." Presented by Mercedes-AMG, the discussion delved into their maverick mentality, their drive for performance, and their determination to challenge norms both on and off the track.

While Demi Chalkias, a two-time Pirelli GT3/GT4 Sprint Championship winner, spoke about financial and health challenges, inspiring others to succeed in male-dominated sports, Marc Lafleur, an entrepreneur and motorsport enthusiast, spoke about defying norms and using his platform to empower Black and minority entrepreneurs. Lewis Hamilton, a motorsport legend and advocate for social change, embodies the maverick mentality in his accomplishments on and off the track, and spoke about his humble beginnings and his continued efforts to make motorsport a more inclusive industry for all.

Mercedes-AMG, known for its passion for innovation and performance, proudly highlighted these mavericks who are reshaping motorsport culture as a whole. Moderated by sports broadcaster Kayla Grey, the conversation explored the drivers' maverick spirit, milestones within and beyond motorsport, the impact of technology and innovation, and the significance of diversity and inclusion in the industry. Thought-leaders from Montreal's creative community, invited by Never Was Average founders Harry Julmice and Joanna Chevalier, also joined the audience to foster meaningful dialogue.