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Lewis Hamilton soaks Vladimir Putin with Champagne
Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has caused a Twitter stir after accidentally soaking the Russian president Vladimir Putin with Champagne as he celebrated winning the Sochi Grand Prix.
Champagne spray is clearly visible on Vladimir Putin’s suit jacket (Photo: screenshot)
Race viewers were quick to turn to Twitter to taunt Hamilton for his podium gaffe against the Russian premier and former KGB officer, one tweeter writing: “Nice knowing you, Lewis.”
@rtsportnews Putin responds by giving his political opposition kill-squad @LewisHamilton‘s home address. Nice knowing you, Lewis.
— Ken Prendergast (@KennyPeepers) October 11, 2015
One tweeter predicted Hamilton’s home town of Stevenage could now become the target for Russian air strikes:
Lewis Hamilton just accidentally sprayed Vladimir Putin with champagne. I get the feeling Stevenage may get some unwanted air strikes soon — Chris Dunnett (@ChrisDunnett5) October 11, 2015
Putin has come under strong criticism from western governments in the past week for launching air strikes in Syria in support of Bashar al-Assad’s unstable regime.
This did not stop the Mercedes driver from warmly accepting the congratulations of the Russian premier – or from spraying his winner’s magnum of Mumm bubbly all over Putin’s back while on the podium.
Several people tweeted their concerns for Hamilton’s personal safety:
How long until Lewis Hamilton is found dead in his bath tub? http://t.co/cPweJaLSAu
— Sayde Scarlett (@Sayde_Scarlett) October 11, 2015
Any word from Lewis Hamilton this morning? In case you missed it, he thought it would be clever to soak Vladimir Putin with champagne…
— TartanShaun (@ShaunAlexC) October 12, 2015
Hamilton has gained a dubious reputation for his celebration antics. Earlier this year he came under criticism for spraying a ‘grid girl’ in the face with champagne after winning the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.
While Hamilton was unavailable for comment following the incident, there are no reports that he has suffered any harm.