Nelson Piquet has issued an apology to Lewis Hamilton for the language he used in a podcast last year.
Nelson Piquet has issued an apology to Lewis Hamilton for the language he used in a podcast last year.
The three-time world champion was widely condemned for his comments, which sparked a wave of support for Hamilton from drivers, teams, and commentators.
Formula One and the FIA have also spoken out against the racial term used by Piquet in the interview, and the British newspaper claims that he could be "banned forever" from the paddock.
Chris Medland, F1 journalist, said in the that category bosses are "considering further action against Piquet in response to his comments, but it has not yet been decided what that actually means."
"I would never use the word I have been accused of using in some translations," Piquet said in his statement.
"I strongly condemn any suggestion that the word was used by me with the aim of belittling a driver because of the color of his skin.
"I sincerely apologize to everyone who was affected, including Lewis, who is an amazing driver. However, the translation of some media that is now circulating on social media is not correct."
"Discrimination has no place in F1 or in society, and I am happy to clarify my considerations in this regard."