Moto2 rider Manuel Gonzalez picked up his first ever win in Grand Prix racing at Motegi. However, the teams sponsor, QJ Motor has called for the Spaniard to be sacked for the team with immediate effect.
Lining up on the grid, Gonzalez wore a Japanese hachimaki headband. This is a traditional Japanese clothing item that was commonly worn during World War Two, especially by kamikaze pilots.
QJ Motor is a Chinese company and have therefore taken offence to one of their riders wearing this item of clothing. This is because in 1937, Japan invaded China and this led to a war that resulted in the death of 20 million Chinese people.
So despite being a symbol of martial arts and history to Japanese people, it has a completely different meaning to the Chinese and this is why QJ Motor have taken offence to Gonzalez's actions.
It is rightly assumed that Gonzalez meant no harm and just wanted to wear something that is relevant in Japanese culture.
Both Gresini Racing and Gonzalez himself are yet to make any comment about the situation.
Featured image: brrphoto
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