Mercedes star Lewis Hamilton didn’t attend the FIA prize-giving ceremony held in Paris earlier this week. Hamilton, along with team boss Toto Wolff took this stance after the controversial final lap in Abu Dhabi cost the Briton his record 8th title. This might spell more trouble for the F1 legend.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem has succeeded Jean Todt as the new FIA president, and the first matter at hand for Sulayem is to decide if Hamilton has made any significant breach with his absence from the ceremony. If this is the case, the seven-time world champion might have to face a reprimand or fine.

Article 6.6 of the FIA rules states, “The drivers finishing first, second and third in the Championship must be present at the annual FIA Prize Giving ceremony.”

This prima facie looks like a breach and the new FIA president is going to scrutinize it closely.

Ben Sulayem wants F1 rules to be enforced

Sulayem took charge this Friday from outgoing president Jean Todt who served for the last three terms. The Emirati addressed the situation in his first official press conference. He laid stress on the governing rules and ensured a detailed look into the matter.

“As a former driver, I understand that he is very excited and disappointed, but we cannot simply ignore the rules,” said Sulayem as reported by Formula Passion.

Notably, Sulayem is a former rally driver and had tremendous success in his lengthy career. He won the FIA Middle East Rally Championship 14 times. He is also the first non-European president of the organization.

No forgiveness for Lewis Hamilton

Sulayem ensured the press in his first briefing that the FIA will conduct a thorough investigation on the alleged breach by Hamilton. Moreover, there will be no forgiveness for the Briton if he breached F1’s FIA gala rules.

“So we are going to look into the side of where the technical rules are there to be employed and was he in breach? I have to look into it.”

“It’s easy to be nice to people. And it is cheap to be nice. And it’s also to motivate people. But definitely, if there is any breach, there is no forgiveness in this.” said the FIA president as reported by Autosport.

Financial actions by the FIA won’t bother Hamilton to a great extent; what is important for the Mercedes driver is that he returns stronger next year and win his 8th world championship. Tell us your views on the same.

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