Lewis Hamilton Responds to Felipe Massa's £64 Million 2008 Title Lawsuit

Lewis Hamilton has publicly addressed, for the first time, the ongoing £64 million lawsuit filed by Felipe Massa against Bernie Ecclestone, Formula 1, and the FIA regarding the controversial 2008 F1 World Championship.

Massa's legal team recently attended a three-day pre-trial hearing in London, arguing for a full High Court trial over an alleged "conspiracy" by Ecclestone to conceal knowledge of Nelson Piquet Jr.'s deliberate crash in Singapore during the 2008 season.

Why it matters:

• This lawsuit, initiated after a 2023 interview where Ecclestone claimed prior knowledge of the 'Crashgate' scandal, challenges the integrity of a pivotal F1 season and could have significant implications for how historical motorsport controversies are addressed.
• While Massa is not seeking to strip Hamilton of his title, the pursuit of 'rightful' champion status and an apology from the FIA highlights deep-seated grievances over what he believes was a compromised championship outcome.

The Details:

• The Allegation: Massa's lawyers contend that Bernie Ecclestone and then-FIA president Max Mosley were aware during the 2008 season that Piquet Jr.'s crash in Singapore was deliberate, a fact allegedly withheld until the 2009 World Motor Sport Council investigation.
• Legal Arguments: Lawyers representing Ecclestone, the FIA, and F1 all argued that Massa's case is time-barred, meaning he has exceeded the legal time limit to bring the claim.
• Massa's Demands: Felipe Massa is seeking £64 million in lost earnings, recognition as the 'rightful' 2008 champion, and a formal apology from the FIA for what he views as an insufficient investigation.
• No Title Revocation Sought: Crucially, Massa is not attempting to overturn the championship results or strip Lewis Hamilton of his first F1 title. It is also doubtful that the court possesses the authority to order such a change, even if the case proceeds to a full trial.
• Hamilton's Stance: Speaking ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix, Hamilton stated, "I don't have a view on it. It's nothing really to do with me, so I'm just trying to arrive at my weekends, and just focus on my job. And whatever the reasons that Felipe has, I'm sure he's got the conviction within him, and that's what he needs to do."

What's next:

Mr. Justice Jay is expected to imminently publish his findings on whether Massa's case will be permitted to proceed to a full trial. The outcome will set a precedent for future challenges to historical sporting results and could reignite debates over the ethical responsibilities of governing bodies and race organizers.