Magnussen uncomfortable with FIA ban on wedding rings

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Haas' Kevin Magnussen says he "feels bad" taking off his wedding ring to race as part of the FIA's ban on drivers wearing jewellery while out on track.

Ahead of this weekend's Miami Grand Prix, motorsport's governing body ramped up its ban on jewellery on the grounds of safety, arguing that "the presence of jewellery can slow, due to the risk of 'snagging', the emergency removal of driver safety equipment such as helmet, balaclava, and overalls."

FIA race director Niels Wittich informed competitors that an amendment covering the ban on jewellery as well as on non-compliant underwear had been added to each team's scrutineering declaration of conformity form.

Read also: Hamilton given two-race exemption on jewellery ban

Magnussen believes that when it comes to such a personal item as a driver's wedding ring, the rule is one that does not make him comfortable.

"I understand what they are they saying, but it is a wedding ring around your finger," said the Dane.

"I'll take a little bit of extra burn on my finger to race in my wedding ring. And if something was going to happen, something bad, I would want to wear my wedding ring. It kind of feels bad to take it off.

"With something like that, like your wedding ring. Let us take that responsibility. There must be somehow to remove liability."

It has been suggested that the FIA will apply an escalating fine system to those who are found in contravention of the provision, with repeat offenders risking a whopping $265,000 sanction!

Magnussen will comply with the rule, but clearly he will do so against his will.

"I don't want to pay the 250,000 Euro fine," said the Haas driver.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.