Hamilton counters Miami pre-race criticism: 'I am in full support'

Lewis Hamilton has insisted he 'fully supports' attempts to modernise F1 amid criticism of the pre-race driver introduction ceremony at the Miami Grand Prix.

The competitors were introduced to the crowd by American musician LL Cool J, walking out one by one through a tunnel of cheerleaders towards their designated spots for the National Anthem pleasantries - all whilst an orchestra conducted by Will.I.Am played a rendition of his new F1-inspired song The Formula.

But the festivities drew ire from followers on social media as well as the drivers, who complained mostly about the distractive nature of the proceedings in the build-up to the start of the race.

Whilst this will not be repeated at every race on the 23-event schedule, around a third of the calendar is expected to be given similar treatment.

'It wasn't an issue for me'

Hamilton's Mercedes teammate George Russell was one driver to voice his dissatisfaction, with one of his concerns being that drivers were being exposed to the sun for too long.

Asked if he harboured similar thoughts, the seven-time World Champion joked with media, including RacingNews365.com: "No, I love the sun."

Outlining his backing for such experiments, Hamilton added: "I think it is cool that the sport's continuously growing and evolving and they're not just doing the same stuff that they've done in the past.

"They're trying new things, they're trying to improve the show always and I am in full support of it.

"I mean jeez, I grew up listening to LL Cool J and LL Cool J is there - that was cool. Then you look over, you have got Will.I.Am, you have got [Tennis stars] Serena and Venus [Williams].

"I thought it was cool, it wasn't an issue for me."