Spectators 'dress up' to racially abuse Hamilton
- 00:01:48
- ITN
Spectators 'dress up' to racially abuse Hamilton
Spain could be stripped of its grands prix after British Formula One star Lewis Hamilton was racially abused by spectators in Spain during a pre-season test.Hamilton was jeered and subjected to lewd gestures as he moved between the McLaren motorhome and the team's garage at the Circuit de Catalunya, in Montmelo, near Barcelona, on Saturday.Some even wore wigs and dark make-up to mock Hamilton who was teamed with Spanish driver Fernando Alonso last season.McLaren tried to play down the incident but the FIA has warned Spain could be stripped of its grands prix.A team statement read: "Vodafone McLaren Mercedes have raced and tested on Spanish circuits for many years, and everyone connected with the team regards Spain and the Spanish people with great affection, Lewis included."An FIA spokesman said: "FIA are surprised and disappointed at the abuse directed at Lewis Hamilton. An act of this kind is a clear breach of the principles enshrined in the FIA statutes, and any repetition will result in sanctions."Circuit director Ramon Pradera said: "We would like to make a plea to the fans to behave correctly. No type of offensive behaviour can be tolerated."© Independent Television News Limited 2008. All rights reserved.
ITN | February 4, 2008
