Lewis Hamilton has made it clear he “loves” the British Grand Prix despite what some saw as a disrespectful decision not to attend the first ‘F1 Live’ event in London on Wednesday.
The three-time world champion was the only driver not present for the street demonstration and music event in and around Trafalgar Square even leading to some boos from those in attendance when his name was mentioned.
It is usual for drivers and teams to participate in promotional events in the days leading up to a Grand Prix, particularly a home event for said driver and/ or their team but Hamilton would defend his decision to spend a few days at home in Monaco when speaking to the media at Silverstone on Thursday.
“Everyone had the right to make the decision for themselves,” Hamilton said when asked if he was surprised to be the only absentee.
“I needed to prepare the best way that I could for this weekend and the season is the most important thing to me.
“People have opinions,” he added in response to the criticism he received, “but it’s a very intense season and I’m trying to prepare for the battle ahead.”
The Mercedes driver was keen to stress his decision not to take part in a fan-orientated event, something he himself has pushed for more of in F1, does not reflect a wider he has of his home race.
“I love this Grand Prix. I don’t think yesterday plays a role in how great this Grand Prix is for me,” he claimed.
“You get people who have saved up so much to come to this Grand Prix. You will have seen from previous years how much I respect and appreciate that and that doesn’t change.
“I told the organisers last week that I wouldn’t be going. I spoke to Toto [Wolff, Mercedes boss], informed the team, and they were very understanding and respectful.”
Many have claimed the decision to skip Wednesday evening was simply a miscalculation from Hamilton, but it appears the reaction has not changed the 32-year-old’s view when asked if would now attend future ‘F1 Live’ events.
“I guess I would decide when the time comes,” he replied.
