F1: Hamilton gives Piquet Jnr a break over 'crashgate'

Published on Friday 25 September 2009 09:42

REIGNING world champion Lewis Hamilton believes it will be difficult for Nelson Piquet Jnr to return to the sport following the race-fixing scandal at last year's Singapore Grand Prix.

The Brazilian revealed after he was dropped by Renault earlier this season that he was instructed by his team to crash during the 2008 night race, a manoeuvre that ultimately led to team-mate Fernando Alonso taking the victory.

Piquet Jnr was granted immunity for giving evidence in front of the FIA's World Motor Sport Council on Monday at which Renault were handed a suspended ban from the series.

The 24-year-old is free to seek another drive in F1, but knows that will be easier said than done and is considering rebuilding his career in the United States.

Piquet Jnr's actions have drawn scorn from some but Hamilton wished him all the best. "I can never see myself being in that position and I'm sure it's the same for the rest of us drivers here," said the McLaren driver. "All I can say is that I wish him well. I know how tough it can be in tough situations and I'm sure he and his family don't feel so great right now."

Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen also believes it will be tough for Piquet Jnr to return.

"He admitted it himself but I think it will be difficult for him to get back after that kind of thing," said the Finn. "It's not something I want to be involved in. If he comes back, it's going to be good for him, if not maybe there is a reason for it."

Red Bull's Mark Webber also entered into the debate, saying: "Whether he should get a big penalty or not is not that easy to comment on. I think enough damage has been done to him.

"I think it's very difficult for him to come back."