Lewis Hamilton denies spraying Russia president Vladimir Putin with champagne

Reigning Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has denied spraying champagne at Russia president Vladimir Putin during his celebrations in Sochi.

The British Mercedes driver, who is on course to claim his third world title, won his ninth race of the season in the Russian Grand Prix at the weekend.

Images emerged appearing to show Putin get caught in the champagne spray during Hamilton's celebrations on the podium, but the F1 ace has denied targeting the Russian leader.

"I actually didn't," Hamilton told Sky Sports News. "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]."

Hamilton is just two points away from winning the drivers' title.

Written by
Danielle Joynson