Last Updated on December 10 2023, 3:22 pm

Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton respond to trophy controversy at FIA Gala; the trophy incident whereby a Fan’s claim versus Mercedes’ and Hamilton’s statement.

In a high-profile twist, the Mercedes Formula One team has been forced to publicly address rumours surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s actions at the FIA Awards ceremony in Azerbaijan. After finishing third in the 2023 season, Hamilton was required to attend the gala to collect his award. However, controversy erupted when a fan claimed on social media that Hamilton had given him the third-place trophy.

 

Background

The fan, who is known for his previous interactions with other F1 drivers, posted a photo claiming that the trophy was now in his possession, having been given to him by Hamilton. The claim sparked widespread speculation and debate among fans and media alike.

Mercedes responded by releasing a statement to clarify the situation. According to the team, Hamilton did not present the trophy to anyone. Instead, as is customary at such events, he left the trophy with officials after leaving the stage, with instructions that it be sent to the team. This practice is not uncommon and has been observed at previous FIA Galas.

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Hamilton’s criticism of the FIA

While the trophy incident was unfolding, Hamilton also made headlines for his outspoken criticism of the FIA’s recent investigation into Toto and Susie Wolff. The FIA had launched an investigation into a potential conflict of interest as Toto is the Mercedes team principal and Susie is the managing director of the F1 Academy.

However, the investigation was quickly dropped after other F1 teams denied any formal complaints had been made.

Hamilton expressed his disappointment and frustration at the FIA’s actions, particularly their questioning of Susie Wolff’s integrity without any substantive evidence. He described the situation as “unacceptable” and indicative of wider problems within the sport’s governing body. Hamilton’s comments highlight ongoing tensions between the FIA and key figures in the F1 community, particularly over issues of diversity, inclusion and leadership.

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Ongoing struggle for progress in F1

Hamilton’s comments at the FIA gala reflect his long-standing commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within Formula One. His criticism of certain FIA leaders suggests a belief that the sport’s governing body sometimes acts as an obstacle to these goals. This stance is consistent with Hamilton’s wider advocacy efforts and his role as a leading voice for change in the sport.

The controversy surrounding Hamilton’s FIA trophy and his critical comments about the FIA’s handling of the Wolff investigation illustrate the complex and sometimes contentious relationship between Formula One’s governing bodies, teams and drivers. As the sport continues to navigate these dynamics, figures like Hamilton remain central to the conversation about its future direction, both on and off the track.

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https://twitter.com/nihadcelona/status/1733593650817298709?s=20

 

 

 

MORE F1 NEWS: Hamilton dumps FIA award trophy with random fan, leaves Gala

The FIA Gala 2023 in Baku took place against the backdrop of Lewis Hamilton’s increasingly fraught relationship with Formula One’s governing body. His criticism of FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and the organisation’s approach to key issues such as sustainability and sportsmanship has been growing.

Indeed the tensions have been apparent, in particular since Mohammad ben Sulyman took over as FIA president. These tensions were…READ MORE ON THIS STORY