In response to news reports indicating that Ralf Schumacher paid to shoot three gentle deer in Serbia within a confined space, PETA Europe Managing Director Ingrid Newkirk has fired off a letter to the Formula 1 driver.

Newkirk writes, “The skill level required for such a thing is equivalent to that required of shooting fish in a barrel—in other words, none. A true sport is one in which all participants are willing. Wounding and shooting deer is cruelty to animals, plain and simple.”

A full copy of Newkirk’s letter can be found below: for further details please call Karen Chisholm on 020 7357 9229 ext 229 or 07734 579 092  Letter is available on request .. or copy of the text is below

Dear Mr Schumacher,

I am writing to you on behalf of the European affiliate of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), the world's largest animal rights group, with more than 1.8 million members and supporters, all of whom are dedicated to promoting an understanding of the right of all animals to be treated with compassion and respect.

News reports indicate that you paid to shoot three gentle deer within a confined space in Serbia. The skill level required for such a thing is equivalent to that required for shooting fish in a barrel-in other words, none. A true sport is one in which all participants are willing. Wounding and shooting deer is cruelty to animals, plain and simple.

We hope that, in the future, you will follow the fine example of your brother, Michael-not only with regard to winning races but also with regard to being kind to animals. May we inform our members that the only lead you will be using from now on is in the foot you apply to the gas pedal? 

We are most disappointed in this news, and we ask that if you do badly in this upcoming race, as you did in Italy, you use a punching bag or another inanimate object to take out any frustration you may feel and be decent enough to leave animals out of it.

With every wish for your success,

Ingrid E NewkirkManaging Director