Vettel speaks out: 'I feel it's particularly targeted to Hamilton'

Following an outcry over the FIA's stricter rules around the control of jewelry and piercings, Sebastian Vettel has also spoken out about the situation. The German thinks that the discussions are a bit exaggerated and thinks that the drivers are old enough to make their own choices.

“I think it’s a bit unnecessary to blow this topic up. Probably at this stage, it’s more of a personal thing and I feel it’s particularly targeted to Lewis [Hamilton]. I mean we spoke about underpants as well-really is that the most exciting thing we can talk about?" Vettel says during the press conference before the Miami Grand Prix.

Jewellry is now part of the standard check at Formula 1 teams. Those who do not abide by the rules can count on a hefty fine and even deduction of championship points if the rules are broken several times. It has been known for some time that drivers are not allowed to wear piercings and jewelry in the car, but this is the first time that the FIA is going to check it strictly.

'Drivers old enough to make own choices'

Vettel understands that it is about safety in the car, but the German believes that the choice lies with the drivers themselves. Hamilton also finds the discussion nonsensical, as the Briton has been wearing jewelry and piercings since his debut in Formula One.

"So, in a way there’s a concern for safety obviously if you have stuff and if the car does catch fire it would be unpleasant but on the other hand, to some degree, it’s personal freedom and we’re old enough to make our choices outside the car, we should be old enough to make choices also inside the car," says the four-time world champion.