Hamilton: Nothing wrong with a bit of fun

Friday 10th July 2009

Lewis Hamilton would love to see Formula One return to the good old days of being formula fun.

The World Champion wowed his fans at the end of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone three weeks ago by performing tyre-smoking donuts in his McLaren, despite only finishing a miserable 16th.

Although the stunt is outlawed by the FIA, it was Hamilton's way of saying 'thank you' to the thousands who have continued to support him during what has so far been a very lean season.

"It was my home grand prix and they (the fans) have stood by me through thick and thin," said Hamilton.

"It was incredible the support I had, beyond me. I didn't know I was going to have that much support still, even though I was all the way back there.

"At the end of the race they were up supporting me and cheering me, even though it was a disastrous race really.

"So it was great fun (the donuts). We do them and burn-outs all the time in demonstrations and things.

"As long as you treat it right and do it properly you won't damage the car."

The 24-year-old, though, feels the drivers should be able to give something back to the fans, like they currently do in MotoGP, and used to do in F1 before the FIA clamped down.

"Look at MotoGP, it is one of the most exciting races to watch, and in the end they give even more back to the fans," added Hamilton.

"I don't think it's unsafe for anyone so why shouldn't we be allowed to do it? I don't know what else we can do.

"If you want to do it in celebration of your win, you should be allowed to. It shouldn't be restricted.

"Look back years ago when Nigel (Mansell) stopped and picked Ayrton (Senna) up (1991 British GP), that was fantastic. That was awesome.

"Not that I want to stop and get on the side of someone else - but it could be fun."

Collecting a flag is another banned practice Hamilton would like to see return, adding: "Yeah, I would love to do that.

"Whether or not they will allow me. I think safety has taken over a lot of things.

"But you guys (the media) can ask. I am just going to focus on my driving and you can let me know.

"It would be good to be back at Silverstone and waving a flag."

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