I don't disagree with LH's message - that he doesn't mind what others might think - but what appals me is the way he communicated it.
True, Lauda is well known for making outlandish comments to the media - he is a well-known provocateur (as you are already aware) - but that doesn't justify LH's manner of speaking IMO. To use a tired platitude, two 'wrongs don't make a right'.
Also, there is a question of mutual respect - world champions want respect for their achievements - and, in this world, rightly or wrongly, you have to give respect to get it.
Also, there is a cultural dimension. Some societies are more blunt and more direct than others. I am not judging those differences. Just saying that, we're British - and we happen to have our own cultural norms for what constitutes an appropriate way of speaking politely with, or about, other people. Maybe I'm old-fashioned (or just getting older ) but I believe in practising those manners and politeness. Putting it bluntly, I just thought LH was plain rude and no amount of pressure or media frustration justified his rude manner.
Incidentally, I read a very interesting interview with Nico Rosberg a couple of days ago. He said that the perceptions that other people may have of him can (and do) matter ... he (IMO rightly) says that they can determine whether a driver is offered a race seat or not. What a coincidence that Christian Horner today ruled out LH joining RBR. Being someone who is easy to work with and/or being known for being sensible does matter and having a 'big mouth' doesn't help create the right perception in other people's minds.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/sarahholt/2011/07/rosberg_tires_of_waiting_for_a.html
Rosberg is clearly very adept at diplomacy whereas Hamilton doesn't seem to know how to handle the media. it is an essential skill for a F1 driver and IMO also shows that a person is mature.
I think Hamilton should steer clear of giving people a headline .. he has enough on his plate at his home grand prix ... he has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons in recent weeks and months ... IMO he should do his 'talking' on the track ... again, Rosberg did this very expertly in 2010 by outshining Schumi all season.
I think LH has gone off the rails - in some ways - since splitting from his father as manager. IMvHO he needs someone who can guide him to become a better man. Life isn't about just being successful at what one does ... IMO living life is also about how one does it
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