The FIA have revealed that Lewis Hamilton has been reminded of his "sportsmanship" obligations, following a meeting between the seven-time World Champion and the governing body's new President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Hamilton met with Ben Sulayem in Bahrain on Thursday, in order to discuss the work being done by Formula 1 and the FIA to improve the sport's diversity and inclusion efforts. Part of the meeting also addressed Hamilton's decision to skip the FIA Prize-Giving Gala in Paris in December 2021. Hamilton, having lost the 2021 F1 title in controversial and gut-wrenching circumstances, opted against attending. This was despite his attendance at the FIA ceremony being mandatory under F1's Sporting Regulations, due to Hamilton finishing second in the Drivers' Championship.
FIA issue reminder to Hamilton
A short statement from the FIA addressed the situation, saying the circumstances that led to Hamilton's absence from the ceremony were discussed. Ben Sulayem has previously expressed sympathy for Hamilton due to the nature of the title loss, but also made it clear that some action would be taken due to the breach of the Sporting Regulations. "Hamilton acknowledged the importance of celebrating the year's achievements with the prize-winners from across motorsport," read the FIA statement. "The FIA President reminded Hamilton of his obligation of sportsmanship, particularly in view of his status in motorsport." Hamilton explained on Friday that he expected his punishment to be a monetary fine, with the FIA statement appearing to indicate that Hamilton's voluntary donation of €50,000, to support a student from a disadvantaged background achieve a motorsport qualification, will be accepted as this fine.
Hamilton presents diversity findings to Ben Sulayem
As the aim of the meeting was primarily to address diversity within motorsport, Hamilton also shared his experiences and findings from his own Hamilton Commission. His organisation helps to support disadvantaged students achieve success in STEM subjects. "Both the FIA President and Hamilton look forward to further positive steps in this area in 2022 and beyond," the statement added. "Diversity and inclusion [are] being made a key priority for the federation".
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