In a stunning turn of events, seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has issued a formal warning to Damon Hill, demanding that the former world champion retract and apologise for comments made regarding Hamilton’s alleged ties to Oracle Red Bull Racing. According to Hamilton’s legal team, the remarks made by Hill on a recent televised segment were “baseless, damaging, and highly defamatory.” The controversy has sent shockwaves through the F1 paddock and reignited tension between rival camps.

Damon Hill, who won the 1996 F1 World Championship and now serves as a commentator, reportedly implied that Hamilton had engaged in behind-the-scenes talks with Red Bull—a claim that Hamilton strongly denies. The comment came during a discussion about driver-team loyalty and recent shifts in the F1 driver market. Hill suggested Hamilton “wasn’t above exploring options—even with his fiercest rivals.”

Hamilton responded swiftly and firmly via his legal counsel, stating that such claims are “entirely false and malicious” and have caused significant reputational harm. The Mercedes-AMG driver has long been critical of Red Bull’s operations and has had a tense rivalry with Max Verstappen and Team Principal Christian Horner. Any suggestion of alliance or negotiation with Red Bull is seen as not only implausible but also insulting to Hamilton’s brand and loyalty.

The letter sent to Hill’s representatives demands a full public apology, as well as an immediate cessation of all speculative commentary regarding Hamilton and Red Bull Racing. It also warns of impending legal action through both the FIA ethics committee and external civil courts should Hill fail to comply. “We will not tolerate defamatory insinuations under the guise of punditry,” the statement reads.

Thus far, Damon Hill has made no public comment about the threat of legal action. However, sources close to the Sky Sports F1 team suggest he is considering a statement to clarify or “walk back” his remarks. Whether this will be enough to satisfy Hamilton’s camp remains uncertain.

The FIA has declined to officially comment, stating only that they are monitoring the situation closely and will intervene “if formal proceedings are submitted.” Meanwhile, Mercedes team officials are standing behind Hamilton, with one spokesperson saying, “This type of rumor-mongering is unacceptable, especially when aimed at one of the sport’s most respected figures.”

The broader F1 community has reacted with surprise and division. Some fans believe Hamilton is overreacting, while others see this as a justified response to years of coded criticism and unfounded speculation. Social media has exploded with the hashtag #StandWithLewis, with supporters demanding accountability for “irresponsible journalism.”

If Hamilton proceeds with the lawsuit, this would mark a rare but serious escalation in F1’s media landscape, potentially reshaping how ex-drivers and commentators speak about current competitors. More importantly, it signals a new level of protectiveness from Hamilton regarding his legacy, image, and future moves. As one insider put it, “Lewis is drawing a line in the sand—and daring anyone to cross it.”

For now, the F1 world holds its breath. Will Damon Hill apologise—or stand by his words and risk legal battle? Either way, the fallout could echo far beyond the paddock.