Lewis Hamilton v Nico Rosberg: Mercedes orders would 'rob' racing fans

The two drivers collided while disputing the lead on the last lap of the Austrian Grand Prix. Hamilton went on to win with Rosberg fourth.

"I've been in that position before," Hamilton, 31, said. "It goes against all your racing values, rules and the foundation of what racing is about."

He added it would "take the joy" out of racing.

The two men will resume their Formula 1 title battle, in which Rosberg is leading Hamilton by 11 points, at this weekend's British Grand Prix, where a crowd of 140,000 is expected on race day at Silverstone.

Mercedes could yet decide to impose restrictions on its drivers that prevent them from racing freely - therefore reducing the likelihood of another crash.

"I didn't come into this sport to be in that situation so I will pray and hope that's not the case," three-time world champion Hamilton said.

"Firstly for myself because that would take the joy of racing out, and secondly for the fans because that will rob them of what they pay so much money for.

"They save up all year to go to the British Grand Prix. Team orders are not something that should deprive them of their excitement."

"Even if it's the other way around and the guy's coming for me, that's racing. That is what you turn up and you sit in the dirt and mud in the camper van at Silverstone for, and that is why you buy the cap. Because you have that passion and that fire."

Rosberg was held responsible for the incident by race stewards, who penalised him 10 seconds and added two penalty points on his licence.

Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff, who operates the team under the basis that the two drivers can race freely but they must not crash into each other, called the collision "brainless".

He has said "all options are on the table" to try to control the situation between the drivers.

Responding to Wolff's comments. Hamilton said: "Emotions are running high but it might not have been the best thing to say.

"There's more than just me, Nico and Toto. There are 1,300 people on the team that are watching us, and even through this difficult time it's important how we project that energy as leaders - because we are the leaders of this team."

Wolff will discuss the situation with senior Mercedes management before deciding what policy to introduce.

Hamilton added: "I feel like I have the right to say my opinion regardless of the boss.

"I don't feel anyone is above or below, regardless of how you live, wealth, religion, whatever it might be.

"You can talk to anyone on that level with respect so I would tell them I have an opinion that needs discussion.

"They hire me as a racing driver to race. They don't hire us to finish as a number two."

(BBC)