FIA open review over Hamilton rule breach

The FIA has confirmed it will 'revisit' Lewis Hamilton's rule breach at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Mercedes driver Hamilton retired at the first corner at the Lusail International Circuit after colliding with teammate George Russell - an incident he took full responsibility for.

Despite not being penalised for the crash, Hamilton was reprimanded and given a fine for crossing the track to return to the pits, which is deemed a safety breach.

Whilst the matter was initially considered closed by the governing body, concerns over the optics of one of the most influential drivers in F1 history committing such a breach has led to further investigation.

An FIA spokesperson said: "The FIA is revisiting the incident in which Lewis Hamilton crossed a live track during the Qatar Grand Prix.

"The FIA notes that Lewis was apologetic during the subsequent Stewards hearing in to the incident and acknowledged that the crossing was a serious safety breach.

"However, in view of his role model status, the FIA is concerned about the impression his actions may have created on younger drivers."

Recent incident

Whilst the incident was dealt with swiftly by race stewards in Qatar, a distressing situation during a Karting World Championship race on the same day will have prompted alarm within the FIA ranks.

Joe Turney was attempting to rejoin his race at Franciacorta in Italy when he was struck by a rival and sustained significant lower leg injuries, for which he underwent foot surgery the day afterwards.

The FIA takes matters of safety with utmost urgency and, even if no further action is taken against Hamilton, will ensure no stone goes unturned over such matters.