Lewis Hamilton’s iconic celebration cannot be replicated after FIA banned Br…read more
In the high-octane world of Formula 1, podium celebrations are a time-honored tradition, typically featuring national anthems and champagne showers. However, in 2018, Lewis Hamilton introduced a personal touch to these ceremonies, a gesture that has since been prohibited by the sport’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
Hamilton’s 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Victory
The 2018 season was a landmark year for Hamilton. He clinched his fifth Drivers’ Championship title, finishing a substantial 88 points ahead of his closest competitor, Sebastian Vettel. The season concluded with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit, where Hamilton secured his 11th victory of the year. This win not only underscored his dominance but also matched his personal best for the number of wins in a single season, a record he previously set in 2014.
A Unique Podium Celebration
Following his triumph in Abu Dhabi, Hamilton’s celebration deviated from the norm. After the customary playing of national anthems and trophy presentations, he unzipped and removed the top half of his race suit, revealing an array of tattoos on his back. Central to these was the phrase “Still I Rise,” a tribute to the renowned poem by Maya Angelou. This act was a visual representation of Hamilton’s personal journey and resilience throughout the season. He explained his motivation, stating, “I’ve always wanted to do it. I always wanted to show, ‘Still I Rise’. I think it was a perfect moment because that’s really how it’s been this year.”
The celebration continued with fellow podium finishers, Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, who joined Hamilton in spraying champagne, creating a jubilant atmosphere that resonated with fans and participants alike.
FIA’s Regulatory Response
While Hamilton’s 2018 podium gesture was celebrated by many, it also prompted the FIA to reassess its regulations regarding podium conduct. The governing body emphasized the importance of maintaining a standardized and professional appearance during official ceremonies. In the years following, the FIA introduced directives to ensure that drivers remained in their full race attire during podium proceedings. Specifically, drivers finishing in positions 1, 2, and 3 are now required to keep their race suits “done up” to the neck, prohibiting the removal or unzipping of any part of the suit during the ceremony.
This move was part of a broader effort by the FIA to maintain the decorum and uniformity of post-race ceremonies, ensuring that personal expressions did not overshadow the formalities of the event.
The 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix Incident
The FIA’s stance on podium attire was further solidified following an incident at the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix. After securing victory at Mugello, Hamilton wore a T-shirt on the podium bearing the message: “Arrest the cops who killed Breonna Taylor,” referencing a high-profile case in the United States. This act of protest, while highlighting a significant social issue, led the FIA to tighten its regulations. The governing body mandated that drivers must wear their race suits fully zipped up during all post-race activities, including podium ceremonies and interviews, to maintain political neutrality and uniformity.
Implications for Future Celebrations
The FIA’s regulations mean that spontaneous and personal expressions, such as Hamilton’s 2018 celebration, are no longer permissible during official ceremonies. While drivers are still free to express themselves, they must do so within the confines of the established guidelines, ensuring that the podium remains a space of uniformity and professionalism.
Hamilton’s iconic 2018 celebration remains a memorable moment in Formula 1 history, symbolizing personal triumph and resilience. However, in the evolving landscape of the sport, such displays have been curtailed to preserve the formal nature of post-race ceremonies.
Lewis Hamilton’s 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix celebration was a defining moment that showcased his personal journey and the emotional highs of a championship-winning season. While the FIA’s subsequent regulations have restricted similar displays, the essence of Hamilton’s message continues to inspire. The balance between personal expression and professional decorum remains a dynamic aspect of Formula 1, reflecting the sport’s ongoing evolution.
