Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton is facing legal trouble after a road incident in Melbourne, Australia, that saw his Mercedes road car impounded. The Victoria police have confirmed that Hamilton is expected to face charges for the improper use of a vehicle after being pulled over for reckless driving.
Hamilton, 25, has since issued an apology for his “overexuberant” driving, admitting that his actions were “foolish.” In a statement released by McLaren, the British driver said, “Tonight, my driving was overexuberant and led to being pulled over by the police. My actions were foolish, and I apologize sincerely.”
According to reports, Hamilton was stopped by police after performing a “burnout” on Fitzroy Street in Melbourne at approximately 9:15 PM. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that authorities believe Hamilton intentionally caused his wheels to lose traction while turning onto the street. Hamilton was driving a silver Mercedes Benz sedan, which was subsequently impounded by the police. He is expected to be charged with improper use of a motor vehicle, and if found guilty, he may face financial penalties. A police spokesperson said, “This issue will be resolved in court and is likely to involve financial penalties. Court dates and times have not been determined yet.”
The incident occurred just hours after Hamilton recorded the fastest time during Friday’s practice sessions ahead of the Australian Grand Prix. He was stopped near the Albert Park circuit and was transported back to his hotel by police, with his vehicle being taken away. A police spokesperson confirmed that there were no issues during the stop and that Hamilton was assisted in returning to his hotel, located about six kilometers (four miles) away, with a male passenger.
Witnesses reported seeing Hamilton perform a burnout and fishtail, with local outlets describing his actions as “hoon driving.” In Australia, the term “hoon” is used to describe reckless or anti-social driving, and the country has specific laws aimed at curbing such behaviors.
This incident is not the first time Hamilton has faced legal trouble due to his off-track driving. In December 2007, he was given a one-month suspension from driving in France after being caught speeding at 121 mph on a motorway.
Hamilton is currently in Melbourne for the second Grand Prix of the 2010 season, where he had a strong showing in practice, recording the fastest lap time. His teammate Jenson Button secured the second-fastest time, while former world champion Michael Schumacher placed fourth after a slow start.
