Lewis Hamilton petition hits milestone as fans demand FIA rethink

A petition calling for F1 bosses to award Lewis Hamilton the 2021 title has surged in popularity with over 100,000 signatures now secured. The survey demands Max Verstappen is stripped of his maiden title and wants the result of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix “overturned”.

Organisers of the Change.org appeal feel “justice was not served” and stressed failing to change the result would send “a very wrong message to youngsters”. The latest total has been reached just days after ex-British F1 driver Tiff Needell warned campaigners’ attempts were futile.

Patel Gordon-Bennett, who is behind the petition, said: “I believe that justice was not served on Sunday December 12, 2021 when the FIA stewards denied Lewis Hamilton of his win of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

“With less than one lap remaining, some lapped cars were allowed to pass the safety car, which does not comply with the rules of the F1 sport. This gave rival opponent Max Verstappen the opportunity to overtake Lewis Hamilton and win the Grand Prix. If you are an advocate of justice, honesty and fairness, please sign this petition.

“Leaving this decision as it stands will send a very wrong message to youngsters and future racers.” Hamilton missed out on an eighth title after a late race safety car and a critical mistake from race director Michael Masi.

The Australian refused to let all lapped cars overtake the safety car with only those between Hamilton and Verstappen let through. Verstappen was able to pit for fresh tyres and passed his championship rival within a handful of corners to clinch the title.

Hamilton then claimed the race was “being manipulated” as Mercedes chiefs begged for Masi to change the final order.

The FIA later admitted “human error” was to blame and Masi was axed from his role ahead of the 2022 campaign. However, FIA bosses have refused to consider changing the result despite the mistake.

When asked if fan action could lead to F1 bosses altering the results almost 18 months later, ex-Fifth Gear host Needell stressed nothing would change.

He added: “We can’t change those as much as anyone might want to. They can’t do. I think if you cancel the race Max is still leading the championship. I can’t see any races being annulled or any championships being removed.”