Lewis Hamilton risks British Grand Prix ban if jewellery is not removed

Lewis Hamilton is set for another collision course with Formula 1's governing body over the jewellery row, which could threaten his participation at Sunday's British Grand Prix.

A record 142 000 fans are expected at Silverstone for one of the highlights of Britain's sporting summer - the majority of whom will be there to support seven-time world champion, Hamilton.

But Hamilton, 37, is facing the astonishing prospect of being expelled from his home race - with the FIA's deadline to remove his nose stud expiring on Thursday, 30 June.

Facing a summons

Hamilton was afforded a two-race medical exemption at the Miami Grand Prix on 8 May - to the seventh round of the campaign in Monaco on 29 May - to remove the item of jewellery, which he says is not easy to take out. A second extension was then agreed upon.

But if Hamilton keeps his nose stud in place for first practice at Silverstone on Friday, and the FIA does not grant further concessions, Hamilton will likely be summoned to the stewards.

While several options are available to the stewards - including a reprimand or fine - the worst-case scenario for Hamilton is a suspension for breaking the rules.

Such a breach would mean he is ineligible to take part in qualifying on Saturday for his home race.

The ban on drivers wearing jewellery in the cockpit has been in place for many years.

'Too much time and energy'

But FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem, who succeeded Jean Todt last December, and race director Niels Wittich, a replacement for the sacked Michael Masi, have been keen to enforce the rule on safety grounds. And there is a growing feeling within the governing body that additional exemptions should not be granted.

Speaking at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix earlier this month, Hamilton