Let drivers celebrate, says Hamilton

The British driver performed a series of doughnuts at the end of his home grand prix two weeks ago, although he admitted he only did that because he had finished well down the order.

He reckons had he won, he wouldn't have been allowed to do it, something Hamilton thinks should change.

And the world champion believes Formula 1 could learn a few lessons from MotoGP, where several riders are known for their post-race celebrations.

"Well, they couldn't give me a penalty really could they? I think when you have won the race you don't want to risk anything and they don't want to damage the car," Hamilton said.

"You have got to do all these different things like pick up rubber and you don't want to get a penalty on top of that.

"But look at MotoGP, it is one of the most exciting races to watch because in the end they give even more back to the fans.

"It was my home grand prix and they have stood by me through thick and thin and I think it was incredible the support I had. It was beyond me - I didn't know I was going to have that much support still, even though I was all the way back there. Even at the end of the race they were still up supporting me and cheering me, even though it was a disastrous race really. It was great fun, you know.

"We do burn-outs and doughnuts all the time in demonstrations and things and the car will be fine. As long as you treat it right and do it properly you won't damage the car. I don't think it was unsafe for anyone so why shouldn't we be allowed to do it?

"I don't know what else we can do. I think if you want to do it in celebration of your win, you should be allowed to. It shouldn't be restricted."

He added: "Look back at years ago when Nigel stopped and picked Ayrton up, that was fantastic. That was awesome. Not that I want to stop and get on the side of someone else - but it could be fun!"