I did not spray Putin on Sochi podium – Hamilton

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton insists he did not spray Russian president Vladimir Putin with champagne on the podium.

The championship leader cruised to a comfortable victory at Sochi after team-mate and title rival Nico Rosberg retired with a throttle issue. Thus, Hamilton received the winner’s trophy from Putin’s hands for the second consecutive year and started indulging in the champagne-spraying tradition before the Russian leader had actually left the scene.

In doing so, the Briton, who is now on the verge of sealing a third title, would have “soaked” Putin’s jacket, which immediately spurred a flurry of jokes across social media concerning Hamilton’s impending doom.

“I actually didn't, I didn't actually spray him, said the 30-year-old,” speaking to Sky Sports. “I think there's a weird picture but I didn't spray him. I definitely don't want anything [to happen],” he added with a smile.

This is not the first time this year that Hamilton comes under fire for his jubilant celebrations on the rostrum.

The Mercedes driver had already been criticised for spraying a hostess in the face with champagne after winning the Chinese Grand Prix, triggering the wrath of several anti-sexism organisations.

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