Hamilton under police investigation over selfie

Editor

Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton is being investigated by police in New Zealand for appearing to use his mobile phone while riding a motorbike.

Hamilton, who was visiting New Zealand prior to heading to Australia for Sunday’s opening race of the 2016 season, sent clips to his followers on the social media platform Snapchat in which he appeared to be riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle on an Auckland motorway. Using a mobile while driving has been illegal in New Zealand since November 2009.

A police spokesman confirmed to the New Zealand Herald that police had been provided with the video and were investigating the matter.

“Police will be reviewing the footage and taking any appropriate action it deems necessary,” the spokesman said.

“Police take a strong stance on any activity which places undue risk on the lives on any person on the road. The use of mobile phones is a significant distraction, especially on a motorcycle, and can cause serious crashes on our roads.”