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Lewis Hamilton will contest the Miami Grand Prix weekend with no issues regarding the FIA clampdown on jewellery as he has been given an exemption for his nose stud.
The seven-time Formula 1 world champion has been at the centre of what he called an “unnecessary spat” following the governing body’s desire to ensure rules around jewellery and flameproof underwear are being followed correctly.
Ahead of this weekend’s Miami race the FIA specified that the scrutineering that teams need to self-administer before the weekend would include “compliant underwear” and “the wearing of jewellery”.
Hamilton has been at the centre of this debate because he has worn jewellery in his nose and ear while driving and Mercedes’ first scrutineering declaration in Miami, following the new mandate, did not initially confirm he is compliant with not wearing jewellery.
However, this was followed by a note from the FIA before Friday’s first practice session saying Mercedes had completed the scrutineering declaration.
And The Race understands that Hamilton is considered in conformity and will not face any issue with the FIA this weekend.
Hamilton has removed the jewellery from his ear but has been given an exemption for the nose stud which cannot be taken out.
The Race has been told that this is initially valid for two races although it remains to be seen if Hamilton will need to have the stud removed from his nose longer-term.
The reason the FIA has clamped down on jewellery is that it can reduce the protection afforded by drivers’ racewear.
FIA race director Niels Wittich said ahead of this weekend that jewellery can reduce heat transmission protection “and thus may increase the risk of burn injuries in the event of a fire”.
“The wearing of jewellery during the competition can hinder both medical interventions as well as subsequent diagnosis and treatment should it be required following an accident,” he said.
