There is a lot of discussion around the jewelry ban in Formula One right now. The governing body of the motorsport reinforced an existing ban that expects the drivers to remove all their jewelry, except wedding rings, before the races. This rule was questioned by many on the grid, especially Lewis Hamilton.
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The Mercedes driver hinted that the FIA was not focusing on other important issues in the sport. He has been protesting against the rule and it looks like he might have found himself an unlikely ally in Christian Horner.
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Red Bull team boss gives his take on the jewelry ban in F1
According to Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner, wearing jewelry should be a personal choice. However, he also mentioned that he understands why FIA is focusing on the rule so much.
Formula One F1 – Miami Grand Prix – Miami International Autodrome, Miami, Florida, U.S. – May 7, 2022, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner during practice REUTERS/Brian Snyder
“That’s the FIA’s problem. If it’s something they feel is important vis-à-vis safety, then the decision is up to them. I don’t have a position. It should be a personal choice if possible. I imagine you could choke on something that is in your mouth, but again, I have no position,” said Horner.
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Hamilton has been defending himself vehemently since the FIA again implemented the rule. He called out the governing body for focusing on jewelry more than other pressing matters.
Lewis Hamilton calls out the FIA over the jewelry ban
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Since the 7-time world champion is the only driver on the grid that wears that much jewelry, it is not surprising that he is defending himself. He also mentioned that the timing of the rule is also a bit weird.
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton wearing multiple pieces of jewelry during the Miami GP press conference. REUTERS/Ricardo Arduengo
“I mean, this whole safety thing, man. When they told me about the jewelry, they were saying safety is everything. I said, ‘Well, what’s happened for the last 16 years? I’ve had jewelry on for 16 years. So what safety not an issue back then?” Said Lewis in Miami.
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Amid all this, Hamilton is now being closely watched by the FIA. As for now, he is in a grace period till 30th June, during which he is allowed to wear his nose stud. However, when this period ends, Hamilton is expected to remove that piece of jewelry too before races. Let’s see how this battle between FIA and the 7-time World Champion goes down.
