Lewis Hamilton given exemption from F1 jewellery ban

Lewis Hamilton has been granted a medical exemption to F1’s jewellery ban.

Hamilton, who had risked a penalty after the Silver Arrows failed to submit a scrutineering declaration to say he would follow the rules, is now expected to race in Bahrain with not one but two nose studs.

He was cleared by the FIA ahead of the season-opening grand prix on the grounds that the process of taking the studs in and out might cause him ‘disfigurement’.

An FIA statement read: “The Stewards having heard from a team representative and receiving a medical report from the team doctor of Mercedes AMG-PETRONAS F1 Team, which requested an exemption.

“The Stewards consulted the FIA Medical Delegate, who viewed the medical report, examined the driver and concurred with the opinion therein. We have determined to take no further action as there are concerns about disfigurement with frequent attempts at removal of the device.”

Hamilton turned up with a new nose piercing ahead of last week’s pre-season test at Bahrain. Images circulating on social media appeared to show the 38-year-old Brit wearing the new nose stud while in the car. 

An earlier FIA statement said: “The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One team has not confirmed… driver Lewis Hamilton (44) in the submitted self-scrutineering sheet that he is complying with the requirement to not wear any jewellery, in the form of body piercing or metal neck chains or watches.”

Hamilton was one of the most outspoken against the decision last season and pushed heavily for the rule to be lifted, often clashing with the FIA over the issue and was pictured at one FIA press conference bedecked in multiple IWC watches, rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings.

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