Before tomorrow Formula 1 turns its laps for the first time on the new circuit in Miami (9.30 p.m. live on ServusTV), their rulers sharpened the safety regulations. From now on, wearing jewelry and private underwear in the cockpit is prohibited.
The reason given by the world association FIA is that rings, chains or piercings could pose unnecessary obstacles for first responders and doctors in emergencies. In addition, jewelry on the skin as a heat conductor can reduce the protective effect of overlying fireproof clothing. “This increases the risk of burns in a fire,” it says. Last but not least, the jewelry carries the risk of injuries and could be swallowed in accidents. According to the rules, wearing standard underwear, which is allegedly still common practice for some drivers, is also not permitted. Only clothing that meets the FIA Formula 1 standards is permitted. Race Director Niels Wittich briefed teams on the new guidelines ahead of the Florida race and announced random checks before each Grand Prix.
The change at Lewis Hamilton meets with at least initial misunderstanding. “I don’t get why they care about these little things,” says the record world champion. The 37-year-old Mercedes driver also gave an explanation as to why he didn’t like the tightening: he couldn’t remove some of his piercings and pieces of jewelery without destroying them.
Team boss Toto Wolff can only be right. “If he (Hamilton, note) gets angry, then he flies,” the Viennese reckons in Miami with an aggressive Brit. In his statement, however, Wolff referred less to piercings and more to Hamilton’s embarrassing 13th place last time in Imola. Either way, it’s high time for Hamilton to adorn himself with good results again.
Source: Nachrichten
