Anthony Davidson cautions emerging drivers against emulating Lewis Hamilton's approach during the Madrid FP3 session.

Photo: Motorsport.com

Former Formula 1 racer and Sky Sports commentator Anthony Davidson has stated that Lewis Hamilton demonstrated an unfavorable example for aspiring drivers during the third practice session in Madrid.

Hamilton collided with the wall at the last corner during FP3, resulting in a red flag. He was able to reverse away from the barrier and continue driving despite a puncture and having the front wing damaged.

"The team needs to provide him with more clarity," Davidson noted during the Sky Sports coverage as the Briton continued to pilot the impaired vehicle.

"They should inform him that the front wing is underneath the car and that the race director may impose a penalty because of this."

In spite of receiving multiple directives from his race engineer to bring the car to a safe location, Hamilton tried to return to the pits. He ultimately stopped the car at the Turn 14 exit after being alerted about direct instructions from the race director.

Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

Davidson emphasized that Hamilton's actions could negatively influence young drivers. "Any young driver watching this right now should understand: you don’t do that. You simply don’t do that," he remarked.

"You might have thought about trying to return to the pits, but that rule exists for a reason. If the car completely got stuck under there and lifted your front wheels, while marshals were on the track, you must consider all these possibilities."

The session continued, with Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli clocking the fastest lap, while Hamilton finished in ninth place. As of this writing, there has been no update from the FIA regarding a possible penalty for the seven-time champion. It is expected that he may face either a fine or a sporting sanction.