Asked whether he was not worried that misleading a third party might give rise
to a claim in fraud, Hamilton insisted: “I don’t do anything
fraudulent. I would never put my reputation on the line.
“In Formula One there is a huge grapevine. A lot of truths and untruths
are spoken. A good manager is one who will fight for his client. If he has
to tell a white lie that seems sensible if he is trying to get the best deal
for his driver.”
Hamilton gave an example whereby he might talk to a team manager and then tell
another that he was in discussions with the first, to put more pressure on
them.
The case is due to end on December 17 with a judgement not expected until
mid-January.