Lewis Hamilton backs down in FIA jewellery row by removing nose stud before British GP practice

Lewis Hamilton has backed down in his row with the FIA over jewellery by removing his nose stud ahead of the first practice session for the British Grand Prix.

The seven-time world champion has been engaged in a lengthy stand-off with Formula One’s governing body, who have taken an uncompromising stance on drivers wearing jewellery in their cars, claiming that it can interfere with their flameproof overalls and consequently become a fire hazard.

Hamilton, despite protesting that he had jewellery that would require a mechanical procedure to be taken out, arrived in the paddock on Friday wearing a stud in his nose but had removed it before stepping into his Mercedes cockpit for practice. 

The FIA, who confirmed the removal, had given drivers a grace period to dispense with any jewellery but made clear that at Silverstone and future races, they would be risking a financial penalty or worse by flouting the rules.

Hamilton has made no secret of his annoyance at the diktat. Having been the subject of racist abuse by Nelson Piquet in the past week, he bristled even at being questioned about his jewellery, saying: “It’s kind of crazy to think, with all that is going on in the world, that is a focus for people. I would say that it is worrying, because we’ve got so much bigger fish to fry.

“We’ve really got to start focusing on other, more important areas. I will be racing this weekend. I will be working with the FIA. I would say that the matter is not massively important. I will work with Mohammed [Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA] and his team, so that we can progress.”

While wedding rings are now permitted, all other jewellery must be extracted. Although Hamilton originally claimed that his nose stud was welded in place, he