May 13, (THEWILL) – Sir Lewis Hamilton’s insistence to keep his permanent jewellery while racing, may bring the Formula One race driver into hot water with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), by the time he lands in Monaco at the end of the month.
THEWILL recalls that at last weekend’s Miami Grand Prix, the seven-time world champion pushed the FIA to modify its tough position on drivers wearing body piercings and neck chains during competition.
At the press conference heading into the Grand Prix, Hamilton, who wore eight rings, three watches, four necklaces and two earrings, spoke passionately about the subject, claiming it was a “step backwards” for the sport.
The Brit then thrashed the idea of enforcing this particular jewellery rule saying: “It seems unnecessary to get into this. I am here to be an ally of the sport – we have bigger fish to fry.”
Mercedes’ driver wears the most jewellery on the circuit, claiming he cannot take off his earrings or nose ring while racing. He, however, expressed his eagerness to discuss the subject with FIA President, Mohammed bin Sulayem, making it clear that he does not want to become entangled in a public feud.
Yet, Hamilton may be sanctioned by the FIA if he does not follow the rules. They can go as far as stopping him from competing in Monaco following the Spanish Grand Prix, which will make an already terrible year for the driver and for the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula 1 team even worse.
Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, is optimistic that both the FIA and Hamilton will reach a “good resolution.” The Austrian, speaking in Miami, said: “It is clear that regulations are here to protect the drivers, but on the other side, we need diversity and the means of expressing yourself and we know that this is important to Lewis.
“Without going into detail – where the piercings stayed and where they didn’t – I am sure they will come to a good resolution.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
