Lewis Hamilton has finally spoken out after going viral for seemingly snubbing FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem in an awkward post-race moment at the Bahrain Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion was accused of “rude behavior” after he appeared to brush off the FIA chief during what should have been a cordial exchange near the weigh-in area.
Footage from the scene showed Ben Sulayem standing with his arms outstretched, ready for a warm embrace from Hamilton. Instead, the Mercedes driver offered only a brief pat before walking away without a word, sparking a flurry of speculation online.
Lewis is so real 😭🥰 pic.twitter.com/wufNg0e7IC
— Marina (@xxoMarina) April 13, 2025
In a statement following the incident, Hamilton addressed the controversy directly: “There was no intention to be disrespectful,” he said. “Emotions run high after every race, and sometimes I need a moment to collect myself. I have the utmost respect for the institution of the FIA, even if I’ve had disagreements with individuals within it.”
Hamilton’s comments come after a tense history with Ben Sulayem, who has faced criticism for several controversial remarks, including one where he compared F1 drivers’ language to that used in “rap music” — something Hamilton found racially offensive.
“Saying ‘rappers’ is very stereotypical,” Hamilton said at the time. “If you think about it, most rappers are Black. So when it says: ‘We are not like them,’ those are the wrong choice of words. There is a racial element there.”
The strained relationship between the two dates back further. In 2023, ahead of the Australian GP, Hamilton made it clear that he never supported Ben Sulayem’s leadership. “He never has [had my support],” Hamilton said in a press conference.
The Bahrain GP marked the fourth race of the season, where Hamilton finished fifth and was named Driver of the Day. While McLaren’s Oscar Piastri celebrated his second win of the season, and George Russell secured P2 for Mercedes, it was Hamilton’s off-track moment that stole the spotlight.
As the F1 season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how Hamilton and the FIA leadership navigate their uneasy relationship.