Lewis Hamilton Distances Himself from Felipe Massa's £64m 2008 F1 Court Case
Lewis Hamilton has publicly stated that he has "nothing to do with" Felipe Massa’s ongoing legal dispute concerning the 2008 Formula 1 World Championship. Massa is pursuing £64 million in damages, claiming loss of earnings and sponsorship due to the controversial events of that season.
The Background of the 2008 Controversy
Felipe Massa contends that the 'Crashgate' scandal at the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix unjustly prevented him from winning the championship. During that race, Massa was leading until a Safety Car was deployed following a deliberate crash by Nelson Piquet Jr., which influenced the race result.
- Massa encountered trouble during his pit stop, causing him to fall far behind in the order.
- Ultimately, Hamilton won the 2008 title by a single point over Massa.
Legal Proceedings and Developments
After a three-day court hearing, it was announced that the final judgment will be delivered at a later date. This lawsuit gained attention after former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone gave an interview suggesting that he and then-FIA president Max Mosley knew about the incident but chose not to intervene.
Bernie Ecclestone later stated he does not recall giving that interview.
Summary
Lewis Hamilton has clearly distanced himself from Felipe Massa’s £64 million legal claim about the 2008 F1 season, which centers on the controversial Singapore Grand Prix and its contested impact on the championship outcome.
Author's note: The dispute highlights the lasting complexity and legal challenges surrounding one of Formula 1’s most controversial race incidents.