Lewis Hamilton could be fined by FIA due to ridiculous rule

In the latest twist in the world of Formula 1, Lewis Hamilton may face punishment from the new FIA boss over the driver’s nose stud.

Niels Wittich, who replaced former race director Michael Masi, has reminded drivers that wearing any form of jewellery during a race is not acceptable.

And with the Australian GP in Melbourne this weekend, the German has put out a stern message regarding the correct sporting code.

Wittich said: “The wearing of jewellery in the form of body piercing or metal neck chains is prohibited during the competition & may therefore be checked before the start.”

Whilst the FIA are adamant that this is not targeted at any individual in particular, F1 fans across the world will know that the seven-time world champion wears a nose stud.

The Federation instead says that the rule is being clamped down on due to safety issues as opposed to anything else.

And this is certainly not just being said for the sake of it – Hamilton has a real chance of getting fined in this situation.

Though it wasn’t over the case of jewellery, Formula E drivers Lucas di Grassi, Jean-Eric Vergne and Andre Lotterer were all fined £8,500 for wearing non-confirming underwear.

Therefore, should Hamilton fail the pre-race inspection, there is a likelihood he will receive a sanction.

Away from dress code, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has played down his team’s chances at success in Melbourne this week.

Wolff said: “We are in a learning race and the first two weekends have shown we still have plenty to learn.

“At the moment, our track performance is not meeting our own expectations, but everyone at Brackley and Brixworth is focused on understanding the problems and finding the right solutions.

“There won’t be a magic fix for the next race