The police have told the Mercedes Formula 1 team that “no criminal offence” has taken place regarding a claim that Lewis Hamilton is being “sabotaged” this season.
Mercedes was under the microscope in Barcelona as boss Toto Wolff was grilled on an anonymous email that alleged Hamilton was being placed at a disadvantage.
The message came from a source claiming to be inside the Mercedes setup and derived from Hamilton’s troubles to translate encouraging practice pace into results.
The email accused Mercedes and Wolff of using “underhand” tactics which could “be life-threatening to Lewis” as the Briton prepares to move over to Ferrari in 2025.
Responding to the news at the Spanish Grand Prix, Wolff revealed Mercedes was involving the police in the matter and it has transpired that occurred within 48 hours.
A Northamptonshire Police spokeswoman has told PA that it has no evidence a crime has been committed, though it’s encouraged Mercedes to report developments.
“Northamptonshire Police received a report on June 12 regarding an email that had been circulated within the Mercedes AMG F1 Team,” it stated.
“No criminal offences were found to have been committed however advice was given regarding any further emails the team may receive.”
Hamilton ended his challenging start to the campaign in Barcelona as he pipped team-mate George Russell to third on the grid and later converted that into a podium.
Wolff was pleased to witness Hamilton end his barren streak and reiterated his earlier comments that it’s inconceivable that Mercedes would compromise one driver.
“These conspiracy theorists, I have zero respect for, because they have no brain,” he told media including Motorsport Week.
“We want a car that wins races and championships and who doesn’t get that should be watching another sport.
“It’s good to see that Lewis has had a great weekend, because it has been a while that he has been on the receiving end and strategy has worked against him.
“But today it went in his favour so I am happy we have that podium for him because it has been a while.”
