American racing driver Bubba Wallace says hate from US President Donald Trump must be responded to with love.
The 26-year-old received wide support recently after he found a rope fashioned like a noose in his garage.
This was interpreted as a gesture of hate, death and racism towards the African-American driver.
Trump, however, hit out at Wallace, insisting the whole thing was a hoax and called on the driver to apologise.
“Has @BubbaWallace apologized to all of those great NASCAR drivers & officials who came to his aid, stood by his side, & were willing to sacrifice everything for him, only to find out that the whole thing was just another HOAX?” He added, “That & Flag decision has caused lowest ratings EVER!” POTUS tweeted.
But Wallace has responded in kind and, not only is he unwilling to apologise, he has urged his young fans to ensure love always wins over hate, even if the hate is coming from the President.
“To the next generation and little ones following my foot steps,” Wallace also wrote on Twitter.
“Always deal with the hate being thrown at you with LOVE! Love over hate every day. Love should come as naturally as people are taught to hate. Even when it’s HATE from the POTUS … love wins.”
Meanwhile, Lebron James also waded in and threw his weight behind Wallace’s message.
“Right HERE too with you!! As well as the next generation who follows in my footsteps! Kings and Queens,” the NBA legend said.