The Felipe Massa controversy has taken a huge turn. What was only a legal battle for a title has now turned to asking for the support of Lewis Hamilton, who won the title. The 2008 title was won by Lewis Hamilton in his rookie season.
However, a scandal that took place that earned Hamilton his title is being questioned by the runner-up of the season. The “Crashgate” scandal was caused by Nelson Piquet Jr and Fernando Alonso and their Renault team. The incident led Massa to miss out on his race win and potentially his title.
Recently, Massa filed a legal battle against FIA and FOM asking for justice and compensation. Soon after his lawyers asked for Lewis Hamilton’s support in the case. However, Lewis Hamilton has shut his down completely.
In an interview, he said, “If that’s the direction he feels he has to go, that’s his decision. For me, I’m not focused on what happened 15 or 2 years ago. I’m focused on what’s up ahead & now, and trying to get our car and our team back on top of the podium. That’s what I put all my energy towards.”
Lewis on Massa: “If that’s the direction he feels he has to go, that’s his decision. For me, I’m not focused on what happened 15 or 2 years ago. I’m focused on what’s up ahead & now, and trying to get our car and our team back on top of the podium. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/dyVDVaEqrQ
— Sir Lewis Updates (@LH44updates) September 15, 2023
Lewis Hamilton does not see the point in seeking the past. He made it clear that he is here to move forward and not focus on his past in the sport. The Brit has shut down the door on the situation. This also was a hint to the lawyers that Hamilton was not on board. With his Singapore race right around the corner, he has much more greater things to focus on.
Toto Wolff weighs in on Felipe Massa’s case, says it’s a precedent to Lewis Hamilton 2021 title
Lewis Hamilton lost his 8th record-breaking title in 2021 to Max Verstappen. The controversial season saw a lost Hamilton in shock. However, with Felipe Massa’s case to win back his 2008 title, Toto Wolff believes it will be an example for Hamilton to fight a legal case of his own. The Mercedes team boss has confessed he is following the case with full interest. Nonetheless, for Felipe Massa, there have been no small victories yet.
Toto Wolff told Sky Sports, “The rule is pretty clear in Formula 1. There’s a civil case behind it, it will certainly set a precedent whatever it is. The FIA commented on the 2021 race with a clear statement. So that is why we are looking at it with interest. We are looking from the sidelines with curiosity.” Nonetheless, everyone is now anticipating what the verdict may be.
Toto Wolff says Mercedes are following Felipe Massa’s legal case around the 2008 world championship “with interest” as the outcome will “set a precedent”.
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) September 15, 2023
However, one of the regulations is that the title giving can not be reversed once it has been announced. For Massa, this could be a long battle. Additionally, Ecclestone has taken back the statements he made at the start of the year. This leaves Massa with many dead ends. Although, if he wins the case, Hamilton might have a chance to get his 2021 title.