03 March 2023 , 14:54
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Karun Chandhok blasted the Formula 1 governing body for briefly reigniting the jewellery row with Lewis Hamilton on the eve of the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend.
It was pointed out on Friday morning that the Mercedes racer was the only one of the 20 drivers who failed to fill out a self-scrutineering form regarding jewellery. But it was long before, after a short investigation, it was confirmed that the Brit has been given an exemption.
The offending items are Hamilton's nose studs. He has long had one in his left nostril, which caused arguments with the FIA last season. It was removed for a while but returned in Singapore as Hamilton complained he had picked up an infection.
He has since had his right nostril pierced and a second stud put in. FIA rules ban competitors from wearing jewellery while competing, but Hamilton has argued that he needs to keep the studs in over concerns about potential disfigurement if he keeps putting it in and taking it back out repeatedly.
After providing a doctor's note, he has been given an official medical exemption by the FIA for the Bahrain Grand Prix. And it is understood that it will apply to all other races this season as well.
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Kraun Chandhok blasted the FIA for making a big deal out of Hamilton's nose studs again (Sky Sports)A statement read: "The Stewards consulted the FIA Medical Delegate, who viewed the medical report, examined the driver and concurred with the opinion therein. We have determined to take no further action as there are concerns about disfigurement with frequent attempts at removal of the device."
On social media, Sky Sports pundit Chandhok voiced his frustration that the topic had even arisen again. He wrote: "I don't understand how this is still going on?! If Lewis wants to wear jewellery, just let him... It's his body and life – surely his choice!"
Ted Kravitz explained why Hamilton was not punished (Sky Sports)Explaining why Hamilton had escaped punishment, his colleague Ted Kravitz said on air: "They got a doctor's report from Lewis Hamilton's side of the garage saying repeated removal and reinstatement of the nose stud could cause disfigurement.
"That's why they have got an exemption. Effectively Lewis' nose stud is still in. He's still got the nose stud in, does have a medical exemption which the FIA have accepted and no further action is to be taken.
"The FIA says this rule is for safety reasons. It applies to all competitors in all FIA competitions and, as the most visible competitors in world motorsport, Formula 1 drivers have a responsibility to set the example for other drivers in every age, level and discipline."