Hamilton is reminded by the stewards that F1 drivers must set an example for juniors

Lewis Hamilton has been penalised for breaching the post-race rules at Interlagos, and the stewards have reminded him of his responsibilities.

Following Lewis Hamilton’s violation of the rules surrounding safety belts, the stewards have reminded him and his other F1 drivers that they must set an example for junior categories.

After winning the Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos on Sunday, Hamilton stopped on the circuit to pick up a Brazilian flag from a steward, loosening his safety straps in the process, which was a violation of the FIA’s International Sporting Code’s Appendix L Chapter III Article 4.

The specific article reads: “Drivers must be properly restrained in their seat by safety belts in conformity with the Technical Regulations for the vehicle concerned, at all times during a competition when it is mobile on a circuit, pit lane, special stage or competition course.”

For his actions, Hamilton was fined €5,000, with an extra €20,000 suspended until the end of 2022, and the stewards underlined the significance of drivers following safety rules.

“The driver of car 44, Lewis Hamilton, undid his seat belts on the in-lap at the end of the race,” read a statement from the stewards.

“While the stewards are sympathetic to the desire to celebrate, it is fundamentally unsafe to undo the seat belts while the car is in motion. Slow speeds in these cars are very fast for an unrestrained occupant.

“Further, Formula 1 drivers set the example for junior categories. It is critical that junior category drivers learn the importance of using all the safety devices of the car at all times.”

The gap between Hamilton and title contender Max Verstappen has reduced to 14 points heading into the last three races of the season.

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