F1 Champ Joins Global Call to Ban Trophy Hunting

A significant international coalition, spearheaded by the Wildlife & Conservation Foundation, has launched a declaration calling for the global abolition of trophy hunting. Over 500 influential figures, including former Formula 1 champion Jenson Button, are signatories to this initiative. The declaration highlights the ongoing practice of hunting endangered animals such as lions, elephants, and critically endangered black rhinoceroses for sport and trophies.

Co-created by Dr. Jane Goodall and Eduardo Goncalves, the campaign officially began on July 1, 2026, marking the 10th anniversary of Cecil the lion's death. Its primary objective is to garner support from governments and the United Nations to enact an international ban on trophy hunting. The campaign emphasizes that the trade continues, with animals like bears, monkeys, and giraffes also frequently targeted.

Recent data indicates that approximately 10,000 lions have been hunted since 2015, despite only about 20,000 remaining in the wild. The declaration also points out that Western governments continue to issue import permits for trophies. Hunters from just 12 countries, notably the United States, account for 90% of the trophy trade.

Local communities in some regions, such as Tanzania, have expressed concerns about not benefiting from foreign hunters and have faced displacement for hunting resorts. Conservationists propose alternatives like ecotourism and community-led conservation, citing Kenya's success where photo safaris contribute significantly to the economy and trophy hunting is prohibited, leading to wildlife population increases.

The campaign asserts that public opposition to trophy hunting is high, with significant majorities in North America and Europe supporting a ban. Supporters are challenging the notion that trophy hunting contributes to conservation, with scientists arguing it can harm vulnerable populations. The movement aims to shift focus to protecting wildlife while it is alive.