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Lewis Hamilton
Photo: RICARDO ARDUENGO / REUTERS
Record world champion Lewis Hamilton is angry about the tightened action of the Formula 1 rule guardians against wearing jewelry in the cockpit.
"It's a step backwards for our sport.
It's such a small thing, completely unnecessary, "said the Mercedes driver on Friday before the Grand Prix in Miami.
He therefore also turned to the head of the world association, Mohammed bin Sulayem.
Appearing at the official press conference, the 37-year-old wore multiple rings on his hands, a series of necklaces and earrings.
Hamilton received support from his colleagues.
"It's good that the Fia pays attention to our safety, but Lewis has had it for so long that it would be good to find compromises," said Red Bull driver Sergio Perez: "It's important that we are on the same line there.« Pierre Gasly wears a religious sign in the car: »I want that with me, otherwise I don’t feel well.«
The German race director Niels Wittich had previously informed the teams that in future they would also have to certify in official documents that their drivers would not wear jewelry or private underwear in the car.
Wittich also announced spot checks.
“If they stop me, so be it.
We have a backup driver,' Hamilton said.
He could not easily take off at least two of his jewelry.
“They're platinum, so they're not magnetic.
They've never been a security problem," said the Briton.
Formula 1 has “more important things to do” than dealing with this topic.
"That's very, very stupid," Hamilton said.
Underwear is also checked
The world association Fia states that the reason for the measures is that rings, chains or piercings could pose unnecessary obstacles for first responders and doctors in emergencies.
In addition, jewelry on the skin as a heat conductor can reduce the protective effect of overlying fireproof clothing.
"This increases the risk of burns in a fire," they say.
Last but not least, the jewelry itself carries the risk of injury and could be swallowed in the event of an accident.
It is also not permitted to wear commercial underwear, which is allegedly still common practice for some drivers.
Only clothing that meets FIA Formula 1 standards is permitted.
mfu/sid/dpa
