Lewis Hamilton Accuses FIA of “Bad PR” but Backs $1 Million Safety Agenda Due to Pressing Reasons

With the US GP just around the corner, Lewis Hamilton has raised eyebrows with his recent critique of the FIA’s public relations approach. Following an unfortunate Qatar Grand Prix, which saw him crash into George Russel at the lap, Hamilton is bound to be excited, heading into one of his favorite tracks, Circuit of The Americas.

Hamilton’s recent meeting with the FIA in Austin has signified a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding safety in F1. It remains to be seen whether his critique propels the F1 to have better and more effective communication. But what did Hamilton say? Let’s find out.

Lewis Hamilton FIA critique

Lewis Hamilton did not mince any words in his criticism of FIA’s communication strategies. Through his statements, he expressed the need for more efficient communication, particularly concerning safety measures within the F1 track. He emphasized, “I don’t think think I was singled out. Ultimately, I think it was just poor communication. I don’t think what they had said is exactly what they meant.”

The main reason behind the criticism from FIA is due to Hamilton walking across the track at the Qatar Grand Prix. Moreover, a recent karting accident may have prompted them to be more cautious. Hamilton has also underscored the importance of continuous vigilance in matters of safety.

However, the Mercedes driver did not shy away from taking a dig at the FIA. He suggested, “But I just think they probably need to speak to their PR agent to do a better job.” The British driver clearly did not like the way that the FIA has communicated. Whatever the case might be, the unfortunate PR might not like Hamilton’s comments.

READ MORE: 2023 United States Grand Prix Schedule: When and Where to Watch the Race at the Circuit of the Americas

Regardless, Hamilton’s criticism is undoubtedly causing an extensive discussion in racing. People are talking more about how important it is to communicate openly and have good safety rules. Because of what he’s saying, F1 might have to think about how they talk to people and keep them safe. However, it is nice to see him at least accept the safety aspect of his incident.

Was Hamilton in the wrong for his ‘walking across track’ incident in the Qatar Grand Prix?

Irrespective of the driver, walking across the track during a race is still very dangerous. Let’s not forget the horrible 1977 South African Grand Prix, where Tom Pryce had a horrible crash. Moreover, Lewis Hamilton is a senior figure at the sport, and a driver who people look up to a lot. A lot of responsibility comes with it. Which is why Lewis Hamilton was in the wrong for walking across the track in the manner that he did.

However, to play devil’s advocate, Lewis Hamilton is widely known to be a professional and respectable person. It’s most likely that this was an honest mistake from the former McLaren driver. And playing true to himself, he has openly accepted responsibility for his mistake and agrees with the safety reason. Hopefully, this situation does not boil over too much and becomes the focal point of the upcoming United States Grand Prix.

With Hamilton on a mission to avenge the Abu Dhabi 2021, the US GP does look quite promising for him. Especially considering that Mercedes is going to bring a new floor for the W14. It’ll be interesting to see how the races ends up for him and his teammate, George Russell. Especially with McLaren and Ferrari right after them.