Lewis Hamilton denies targeting Vladimir Putin during Russian Grand Prix celebrations
The Brit took a huge step towards retaining his world title with victory, and soaked Putin with champagne during the post-race celebrations
Lewis Hamilton has denied targeting Vladimir Putin after he won the Russian Grand Prix on Sunday.
The Brit took a huge step towards retaining his Formula 1 world championship with victory in Russia - and celebrated by dousing Putin with champagne.
Putin beat a hasty retreat after being showered, while Hamilton was snapped with a host of Russian grid girls after his success in Sochi.
However, the Mercedes star insists he didn't aim his celebrations in the direction of the Russian president.
He told Sky Sports: "I actually didn't. I didn't actually spray him. I think there's a weird picture but I didn't spray him. I definitely don't want anything (to happen).
Despite Nico Rosberg having to retire early in the race, a great result for Hamilton, the Brit's win was enough to secure the constructors' title for Mercedes.
Kimi Raikkonen was handed a 30-second penalty after crashing into Valtterie Bottas, meaning he was demoted from fifth to eighth, mathematically ruling Ferrari out of the title race.
Hamilton's day was not without some drama itself, over fears his rear wing could snap.
"There was a bit of rear wing instability and it was a little worrying but in the end it turned out ok," said boss Toto Wolff.
His victory leaves him 66 points clear of team-mate and title rival Rosberg with only four races remaining.