Formula 1's Max Verstappen says he will not 'take the knee' for Black Lives Matter

Formula 1 race car driver Max Verstappen took to Twitter early Sunday morning to express his decision that he would not be taking a knee for Black Lives Matter amid international unrest over the death of George Floyd and calls to abolish the police.

Verstappen tweeted: "I am very committed to equality and the fight against racism. But I  believe everyone has the right to express themself at a time and in a way that suits them. I will not take the knee today but respect and support the personal choices every driver makes."

This comes alongside Nascar driver Bubba Wallace, sponsored by Black Lives Matter, accusing someone of planting a noose in his car garage in late June, which turned out to be a hoax.

Verstappen has received support for his decision in not taking a knee, with many tweeting their approval.

"Good for you Max," wrote one reply. "Do not be brow beaten by those who shout the loudest. Politics and sport does not mix. Your a fine young man and an excellent driver, good luck!"

Some disagreed with Verstappen's stance, with claims of disappointment and shame over his refusal to take the knee, as if taking the knee ends racism and isn't at all a political gesture to show fealty to the far-left, Marxist movement that brands itself with a pithy phrase.  

Verstappen did not bend the knee to his critics, but has decided to move forward with his decision.