Lewis Hamilton is undoubtedly one of the most charitable men on the grid. The Brit is also an activist and champion of human rights. However, no matter how much good Hamilton puts in the world, there is always some source of criticism that finds him. This is exactly what happened as fans discussed Hamilton’s property ownership in London.

As per The Guardian, in the UK government’s attempt at transparency, a document revealed various beneficiaries of offshore companies. Hamilton is among the owners of such companies that own various properties in London. Hamilton is the owner of three such companies set up in the British Virgin Islands.

It is previously reported that the Brit paid $20 million for a mansion in London in 2017. The details of the document revealed that Hamilton bought the estate through an offshore company.

However, a spokesperson of Hamilton revealed the purpose of the offshore companies. These companies are set up to help Hamilton maintain his privacy rather than avoid tax. These companies do not help Hamilton avoid tax. In fact, owning properties in London through an offshore company is completely legal.

However, Hamilton’s disclosure still angered some fans and a debate ensued on Reddit.

Fans debate over the ethics of Lewis Hamilton after the disclosure of his offshore companies

The British world champion has amassed a massive $130 million real estate empire. Few of the properties in that empire are owned by offshore companies primarily to protect his privacy.

However, some fans did not agree with Hamilton’s methods of property management.

“Its funny when the same guy goes later about fighting with discrimination etc etc”

“It’s a huge issue with sports in general. People give their favorite athletes a pass for anything.”

“They’ll rail against the CEO making $3 million a year and call him a greedy money-grubbing bastard. But their favorite baseball player making $34 million and surely dodging every tax possible? Oh that’s okay.”

“He portrays himself as holier than thou however; and acts as if he is a living moral compass so yeah this is pretty hypocritical and not remotely surprising”

Although there were fans who pointed out the real reason behind Hamilton’s offshore company ownership.

“There is no difference in the tax law between you and Hamilton. You just don’t make enough money to utilize it. This isn’t a loophole that needs closing.”

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“The ownership of Lewis Hamilton’s UK properties via the companies listed on the register of overseas entities does not give him any UK tax advantage or other financial benefit.” So he’s just doing it for privacy reasons?”

“Maybe that way some nutter doesn’t look up his public address.”

“Great job at not reading the article or understanding what is being reported. Keep up the low effort shade throwing.”

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The fans clearly have mixed reactions to the news. However, one cannot deny Hamilton’s need and effort to maintain his privacy, especially now that he’s been in the limelight since 2007.