<grammarly-btn>Now, this may be a controversial post, but let's step back from our emotions for a minute. Post race interviews are part of the requirements of an F1 driver. The obligations of each driver extends beyond the race itself. This is a global sport, with a global audience. No driver is bigger than the sport, and if he believes this, action must be taken to correct it.
Hamilton's actions yesterday left a foul taste in my mouth, and according to social media, many others too. Although there are a lot of discussions whether the post-race interviews should occur on the track or on the podium, the fact of the matter is that the driver is required to address the public no matter what the outcome of the race. The choice by Hamilton to leave parc ferme, in my opinion, should be dealt with by the FIA; handing out a fine for failing to meet these obligations. Every driver has a bad day, but this doesn't excuse a "bigger-than-the-sport" decision to be made by any individual. If this is not handled by the FIA, the next "Hamilton" moment cannot be criticised by those in charge as their failure to act on this incident, is, in fact, setting a precedent for the next driver who wishes to shy away from the spotlight. Furthermore, it is disappointing that Sky F1 interviewed him on the podium, further accentuating the immature move by him.
So with all said and done, I expect there will be criticism for this post. However, if the sport is to be professional across the board, these drivers need to be pulled back into line when they clearly operate outside of their obligations. Most of them have led a sheltered life, having been racing since their early years. This is not an excuse, but another reason why they must be told when they do wrong. I hope FIA take action and make sure this type of incident doesn't happen again in the future.
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