It is a simple reminder of a regulation that has existed for 17 years, but it prompted the Briton Lewis Hamilton to use irony and allusion. Ahead of the Australian Grand Prix this weekend, Formula 1 drivers have been reminded that they are not allowed to wear jewelery during races, prompting Lewis Hamilton to joke on Friday saying he had piercings he couldn’t get out.
“The wearing of jewelry in the form of piercings or metal neck chains is prohibited during the competition and can therefore be checked before the start,” the regulations state. The decision was included in the event notes for this week’s Australian Grand Prix, released by new FIA race director Niels Wittich, who takes up the post at Albert Park following Michael Masi’s dismissal. .
It’s not a new rule, but the recall comes after some drivers were seen wearing jewelry in their cars. A number of drivers wear jewelry in the paddock which is allowed, including seven-time world champion Hamilton.
“I have several piercings that I really can’t remove, that few people know about,” joked, smirking, the Briton, when asked about the settlement. Obviously and voluntarily leaving doubt on the exact place where these piercings are placed… “But it has always been the rule, so nothing new”, he added.
The ban was introduced in 2005 as a safety measure to reduce the risks to drivers when they have to get out of a car after an accident.
