The Mercedes F1 team has been cautioned by the FIA for failing to report that Lewis Hamilton was complying with jewelry regulations at the Bahrain Grand Prix. A jewelery crackdown was introduced last year, citing safety reasons. However, there was resistance from drivers, including Hamilton, who was given a number of extended deadlines to remove his nose piercing.
Hamilton also showed up at the Miami Grand Prix wearing several watches and jewellery, which he later admitted was to play around with the FIA and its regulations. He was also summoned by the stewards for alleged violations at last year’s Singapore Grand Prix. The FIA’s International Sporting Code on the ban on jewelry states that “body piercings and metal neck chains are prohibited during competition and may be checked prior to the start.” F1 retired Sebastian Vettel has claimed the ban was aimed directly at Hamilton. The FIA has changed rules to require teams and drivers to submit a self-inspection dossier to the FIA prior to circuit practice on all race weekends. Drivers must therefore ensure that they are wearing suitable fireproof clothing and that all jewelery is removed. On Friday, the FIA said all 19 other drivers had completed their self-check paperwork before the deadline. “The Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team has complied with the condition that driver Lewis Hamilton (44) does not wear jewelry such as body piercings, metal neck chains and watches (App L Ch III 5). have not been confirmed in the submitted self-inspection sheet.” However, after the team met with the FIA medical delegate, the FIA elected to take no further action on the matter. Complicating matters when trying to remove the jewelery in question, the FIA had no choice but to settle the matter. “The stewards have consulted the FIA medical delegate, looked at the medical report, examined the driver and agreed with their opinion,” he said. We have decided not to take further action due to concerns that it may harm
