Lewis Hamilton faces further probe over Qatar Grand Prix incident despite fine

15 October 2023 , 13:38

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Lewis Hamilton reacts to his Qatar Grand Prix crash (Image: Formula 1 via Getty Images)

Lewis Hamilton could find himself in hot water after the FIA confirmed they are 'revisiting' an incident involving the Brit at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Hamilton collided with teammate George Russell at the start of the race as he attempted to overtake the Mercedes driver and race leader Max Verstappen.

The seven-time world champion ignored safety protocols and crossed the track while the race was under the Safety Car. He was reprimanded by stewards before receiving a big €50,000 (£43,400) fine for his troubles.

Half of that fine is suspended on the condition that there are no further safety breaches for the rest of the year but the FIA have expressed their concerns over the example being set.

An FIA spokesperson said: "The FIA is revisiting the incident in which Lewis Hamilton crossed a live track during the Qatar Grand Prix.

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"The FIA notes that Lewis was apologetic during the subsequent Stewards hearing in to the incident and acknowledged that the crossing was a serious safety breach. However, in view of his role model status, the FIA is concerned about the impression his actions may have created on younger drivers."

The safety protocols have been in place for a number of years with F1 bosses eager for drivers to stay off the track. It comes after a karting driver suffered leg injuries last week, after being struck by a rival.

Hamilton accepted responsibility for the crash last week, admitting after the race: "I have watched the replay and it was 100 percent my fault. It was not our plan to come together. (I'm) just really gutted for the team, and we have all worked so hard to be in that position, just really sad for everybody for my part in it."

He was also forced to dismiss claims of a strained relationship with Russell, who added: "I definitely appreciate him apologising for that. In every incident, it involves two people.

"We have one goal and that is to finish second in the constructors' championship. We are frustrated because it was a big missed opportunity for us."

Liam Prenderville