Lewis Hamilton will not attend the Oscars, despite nominations for the F1 film, because of the Chinese Grand Prix.
Lewis Hamilton has considered “every possible option” to attend the Oscars ceremony on Sunday after the Chinese Grand Prix, but ultimately concluded that it would be unfeasible to arrive punctually.
F1 the Movie, which Hamilton co-produced and made a cameo appearance in, has received nominations for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Visual Effects.
The Ferrari driver collaborated closely on the film with director Joseph Kosinski and lead producer Jerry Bruckheimer, providing input on the script and participating in a driving day with the film’s lead actor, Brad Pitt.
Shanghai, the location of this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix, is a 12.5-hour flight from Los Angeles, and even with the 15-hour time difference, it would be impossible for Hamilton to complete the journey in time.
Formula 1 races have a three-hour window for their start times, allowing for potential red flag interruptions; however, even if Hamilton departed three hours after the scheduled race start, he would still arrive only 30 minutes before the ceremony in Hollywood is set to begin.
“I think it’s impossible,” he stated on Thursday. “I’ve explored every way to get there on time, but unfortunately, I can’t make it.
“However, I’ll FaceTime with Joe and Jerry while they’re there, which will be nice.
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“I’m extremely proud, and I never imagined in a million years that this would be the result of the efforts we’ve put in over the years.
“It’s incredible to witness. I don’t know if it’s the sport, but to see the level of promotion globally, to observe the excitement, and to see new fans becoming enthusiastic about the sport, just as many of us did while growing up.
“It’s truly wonderful to see that growth. Additionally, I’m still here, still part of it, and able to witness it.”
Last month, the F1 movie won a BAFTA for Best Sound at a ceremony held in London.
Source: espn.com
