Vettel and Hamilton assert their freedom against the FIA’s security injunctions

The safety rules regarding fire protection transmitted by the FIA to the drivers are uncompromising. Jewelry, including piercings, is completely prohibited due to the burns it could cause in the event of an unexpected increase in heat in the cockpit. This also applies to the drivers’ underwear, which is not flame-retardant unlike what is required by the sporting regulations. These explanations have been reminded to the drivers once again this season, with threats of exclusions.

Lewis Hamilton came to the press conference on Friday afternoon in front of cameras with all the jewelry he had brought with him this weekend for the Miami F1 Grand Prix. Covered in multiple chain necklaces and pearls, with 3 watches, rings, piercings, and earrings, he himself acknowledged that he went a bit overboard to provoke the FIA and defend his freedoms.

« I wore all my jewelry today. Yes, um, it’s a bit of a sticking point » explains the Mercedes driver. « I’ve been racing for 16 years and I’ve always worn jewelry. In races, I only have my piercing and my earring and it has never been a safety issue. »

Lewis Hamilton, through this decision, is outraged by individual liberties, especially with regards to women’s rights.

I think that today people can decide to be themselves. We should not dictate laws that prevent people from being themselves or expressing themselves. This is part of laws that are against women’s rights, so it is very important to me, therefore I take a stand.

Sébastien Vettel, on his part, also to assert his freedoms, has decided to wear his underwear on top of his Aston Martin suit. He explained that everyone is free to act as they wish outside of Grand Prix races and that there is no reason for that to change during a Grand Prix, despite the safety recommendations from the FIA.

The conference and explanations of Lewis Hamilton: