Hamilton Slams Verstappen’s “Joke” Penalty Amid Press Conference Protest Drama at Singapore GP

Lewis Hamilton criticizes the "laughable" sanction while Max Verstappen shows dissent through a media briefing.

Lewis Hamilton, alongside Lando Norris, has expressed disapproval of the punishment given to their Formula 1 competitor, Max Verstappen.

Lewis Hamilton has expressed his dismay over what he considers a "joke" punishment handed to Max Verstappen for using profane language during the FIA press conference at the F1 Singapore Grand Prix.

The FIA mandated that Red Bull's Verstappen perform community service following his use of offensive language to critique his vehicle's functionality during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, as stated in a press conference in Singapore on Thursday.

The triple world champion offered brief replies during the FIA press briefing after the qualifying round and chose not to address certain inquiries from reporters.

Subsequently, Verstappen addressed the press beyond the confines of the room located in the Singapore racing circuit's paddock area.

Hamilton and Lando Norris, who outperformed Verstappen to secure pole position in Singapore, were queried about their opinions on his sanction.

Norris humorously remarked that Verstappen "earned it," then stated: "I believe it's quite unjust and I'm not in support of any part of it."

Seven-time world champion Hamilton described the penalty as "quite frankly, a bit laughable."

"He emphasized the high stakes involved, acknowledging errors occur. He firmly stated his refusal to engage in community service and expressed his wish for Max to avoid it as well."

When queried about the duration he expects to continue providing limited responses at FIA press briefings, Verstappen responded, "I am responding, just not extensively. It's due to an issue with my voice."

In an interview with Sky Sports F1, Verstappen expressed his disbelief, remarking, "It's absurd to receive a penalty for that. Insulting someone is quite straightforward. I didn't target anyone specifically.

This was a minor verbal mishap. It's not directed at the officials. They're simply adhering to the regulations.

"I really had a good conversation with them regarding the matter. They showed a lot of empathy, yet they emphasized that it's part of the regulations and they need to enforce it.

"In my opinion, this isn't the correct path to progress in our sport."

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