Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton finds himself at the center of a controversy involving 82.6 M dollars.
Formula 1 is going through a legal storm that could rewrite history. Lewis Hamilton, 82.6 M dollars, and Felipe Massa are unexpectedly linked. This case recalls the famous 2008 duel and shakes the sport’s backstage.
Why is Lewis Hamilton involved in the 82.6 M dollars case?
In 2008, Lewis Hamilton beat Felipe Massa in a dramatic season. The Briton won his first world title by just one point. However, the Singapore Grand Prix changed everything, as a scandal emerged.
During that race, Nelson Piquet Jr. deliberately caused a crash. Thanks to this, his teammate Fernando Alonso could win. Massa, who started on pole, dropped down the ranking after a disastrous safety car pit stop. Hamilton finished third and saved crucial points.
A year later, Renault admitted the maneuver and dismissed Flavio Briatore, accused of orchestrating the plan. Now, Massa reignites a controversy placing 82.6 M dollars and Lewis Hamilton at the center of the debate. That also involves the FIA. Massa seeks justice because this sabotage cost him the world title.
What exactly does Felipe Massa demand?
Felipe Massa believes he lost a title due to this manipulation. The Brazilian is suing the FIA and Bernie Ecclestone for gross negligence. According to his lawyers, officials hid a scandal that altered the outcome of a historic championship.
He demands around 82.6 M dollars in damages. That compensates not only for lost earnings but also for reputation damage. Massa insists on defending his honor and that of Brazilian motorsport.
The driver could even officially reclaim the 2008 world title. This unprecedented scenario would make Lewis Hamilton, 82.6 M dollars, and Massa the protagonists of a duel rewritten by the courts. That already sparks intense debate among fans and analysts.
The impacts of this case on Lewis Hamilton and F1
If the British courts side with Massa, Formula 1 history could change. Hamilton’s first championship would be contested nearly twenty years later. The FIA, already criticized for handling certain cases, would face a massive credibility loss.
This incident with Lewis Hamilton and 82.6 M dollars serves as a stark reminder of F1’s gray areas. The maneuver itself never included Hamilton, but the situation directly threatens his title. It tarnishes an otherwise exemplary career.
For now, the final decision rests with the High Court of London. Fans are waiting for a verdict that could shake the champion hierarchy. In any case, this controversy shows that Formula 1 has not yet fully learned from its past.