Ahead of the start of the weekend in Miami, the FIA Race Director reminded drivers to wear certified underwear and remove all jewelery before entering the cockpit.
Racers are wealthy young people who are used to a certain lifestyle and do not like restrictions. And while everyone understands that the FIA is guided by safety issues, it all looks strange.
At a press conference on Friday, Lewis Hamilton was again asked what he thinks of these restrictions…
Lewis Hamilton: “Today I couldn’t wear more jewelry than I have now. All this seems to me to be a step aside, if we think about which issues and tasks should really be central.
Our sport has made great progress, this weekend we are waiting for the race in Miami. And how about decorations? It’s a ridiculous little thing. I have been playing sports for 16 years and have been wearing jewelry for 16 years. When I’m in the cockpit, the only jewelry I have is earrings and a nose ring that I can’t even take off.
I have already discussed this with President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. There is no need to discuss this matter further. I’m here to represent our sport. There are much more serious things to focus on.
I tried to call Mohammed this morning, but he must be very busy. Then I messaged him, reassuring him that I was on his side. “I don’t want to fight over stupid things. Let’s have a nice weekend.” I haven’t received a response yet, maybe he’s already written to me, I don’t know, but I’ll try to talk to him before the race.
My jewelry is platinum, it is not magnetic, it has never been a security issue in the past. I’ve had MRI scans many times and have never taken this jewelry off. But if they won’t let me in here, so be it. We have reserve drivers, we are ready for the weekend. There’s a lot to do in this city, so I’ll be fine!”
Four other riders who attended the first press conference – Alex Albon, Sergio Perez, Lance Stroll and Pierre Gasly – supported Lewis.
In particular, Pierre Gasly said: “I appreciate the FIA’s concern for our safety, this is a priority, but I believe there are more important things than decorations.
I have religious items that I carry with me when I race. They are important to me, without them I don’t feel comfortable behind the wheel. I think this is a very personal matter and we should have the freedom to make that choice.
Ultimately, we take responsibility when we go out on the track and risk our lives. I respect the FIA and their commitment to continuously improve safety, but we need to discuss this issue and find a better solution, less rigorous than they have accepted. Let’s see what can be done.”
Source: F1 News
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