Lewis Hamilton expressed relief today after hearing he will not be penalised for his role in the accident involving Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel in last weekend's Japanese grand prix.
Hamilton could have been docked 10 points if found guilty by the FIA of causing the crash, which took place on lap 45 of the 67-lap race. The ruling means Hamilton's bid to become formula one's first rookie world champion is still on course.
"I am honestly happy with the result and looking forward to the weekend and approach tomorrow and just want to try to win the race," Hamilton said after the judgement. "It was just really tough today. Now I am relaxed. I can really focus and get a good night's sleep and come back tomorrow and enjoy the weekend."
Vettel's team Toro Rosso had requested that the matter be re-examined due to the appearance of new footage on the video website YouTube after the German was penalised 10 places on the starting grid for this Sunday's Chinese grand prix. The new video, which was filmed by a fan in the grandstand at the Fuji Speedway, appeared to show Hamilton pulling over to the right-hand side of the track and braking sharply, prompting Webber to also slow unexpectedly and catch Vettel off guard, causing him to drive into the back of the Australian.
However, the race stewards revealed that Hamilton had no case to answer. "The involvement of Lewis Hamilton in this incident has also been considered in the light of the evidence given by him, his team manager and in particular all other parties present and no penalty is imposed on him," wrote the stewards.
"Having heard the evidence of all concerned and viewed both the original film of the incident which was available to the stewards at Fuji as well as the new film (which in reality adds little, if anything, to the original film) what has become apparent is the view clearly expressed by all drivers and team managers alike that the conditions at Fuji were exceptionally bad," they added.
Vettel also had his 10-place grid penalty for this weekend's grand prix downgraded to a reprimand.