Lewis Hamilton Apologizes for Mocking Nephew Who Wore a Princess Dress

Is this an apology fit for a princess?

Champion racer Lewis Hamilton issued an apology on Twitter Tuesday morning after he posted an Instagram story where he mocked his nephew for wearing a princess dress.

Hamilton called his words “inappropriate.”

“I meant no harm and did not mean to offend anyone at all,” he wrote. “I love that my nephew feels free to express himself as we all should.”

Yesterday I was playing around with my nephew and realised that my words were inappropriate so I removed the post. I meant no harm and did not mean to offend anyone at all. I love that my nephew feels free to express himself as we all should.

— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) December 26, 2017

My deepest apologies for my behaviour as I realise it is really not acceptable for anyone, no matter where you are from, to marginalise or stereotype anyone.

— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) December 26, 2017

“I have always been in support of anyone living their life exactly how they wish and I hope I can be forgiven for this lapse in judgement,” Hamilton said.

I have always been in support of anyone living their life exactly how they wish and I hope I can be forgiven for this lapse in judgement.

— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) December 26, 2017

The “lapse in judgment” Hamilton talked about was actually an extended rant to his nephew about the boy’s wardrobe choice.

Oh dear Lewis. You’ve just opened a can of worms… pic.twitter.com/fpsiNeOZrd

— Nabeela (@JustNabz) December 25, 2017

“I’m so sad right now. Look at my nephew,” Hamilton said as he showed his nephew, who wore a purple and pink princess dress. “Why’re you wearing a princess dress?” Hamilton asked.

“Is this what you got for Christmas?” Hamilton then asks. After his nephew nods, Hamilton asks the boy why he asked for a princess dress then yells, “Boys don’t wear princess dresses!”

Hamilton’s original remarks drew swift criticism from fans and the LGBTQ community alike.