MIST CHANCE

Smog chaos holds up Lewis

LEWIS HAMILTON called on Formula One chiefs to change the rules radically after the Chinese Grand Prix descended into chaos yesterday.

Thick smog 24 miles away in Shanghai meant yesterday’s first session was cut short and the second practice was scrapped altogether.

Safety rules state that drivers who suffer head injuries must be taken to a nearby hospital capable of treating neurological injuries.

Revised

But the foggy conditions near the hospital meant an air ambulance would not be able to land.

Police could also not guarantee an emergency route by road given the city’s traffic congestion.

It’s grounding meant that the Shanghai International Circuit was effectively open for just 15 minutes of a scheduled three hours.

Hamilton now wants to see three practice sessions today before qualifying and racing tomorrow in a revised schedule, saying: “We must find a solution to deal with the weather issue.

“This could actually be a blessing from JAMES MURRAY in Shanghai in disguise and a chance for the new bosses to be pro-active and creative. The track was absolutely fine and we could have run all day today.

“It’s not good for the fans watching on TV and even worse for those in the stands. They’ve barely seen a car on track.

“We need to work together to find a solution or an alternative plan.”

Following the no-show, team bosses met with the FIA’s Race Director Charlie Whiting to discuss potential changes to the weekend.

Wet weather is anticipated while reports suggest visibility for tomorrow’s race could be even worse.

That would leave the helicopter grounded and cast doubt over the race itself.

With the Bahrain Grand Prix scheduled for next weekend, teams are already committed. Visa requirements also means the race cannot be delayed 24 hours.