Lewis Hamilton Breaks Silence on Felipe Massa Hearing
Lewis Hamilton has refrained from commenting on Felipe Massa's legal action concerning the 2008 World Championship. That season, Hamilton clinched his first title in the final moments at Interlagos after a close contest with Massa.
Recently, Massa has pursued legal claims linked to the impact of the ‘Crashgate’ scandal. He is seeking $82 million (£64 million) in damages, arguing that lost earnings resulted from not being crowned World Champion due to Hamilton securing the title.
Details of the Legal Action
- Massa's lawsuit followed a 2023 interview with former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone published by a German outlet.
- The interview included statements alleging that Ecclestone and then-FIA President Max Mosley knew the ‘Crashgate’ incident was deliberate.
- The incident involved Renault’s Nelson Piquet Jr deliberately crashing to aid teammate Fernando Alonso before the scandal became public.
Denials and Current Proceedings
Ecclestone has denied authorizing the interview, and he along with the FIA and Formula One Management reject the accusations. Massa recently attended a three-day hearing in London to present his case.
“My legal action has been in the interest of ‘sporting justice’, rather than anything personal against Hamilton.”
Massa emphasizes that his pursuit is centered on fairness in sport, not a personal vendetta against Hamilton.
Summary
Hamilton avoids public comment while Massa seeks recognition and compensation for the 2008 title's controversial outcome amid the legacy of the ‘Crashgate’ scandal.
Author's summary: Lewis Hamilton remains silent on Felipe Massa's legal pursuit for sports justice over the contested 2008 championship influenced by the notorious ‘Crashgate’ scandal.