In talking about the incident, the three-time champion and former Brabham, Lotus and Benetton driver said Hamilton was to blame for the incident and had been “lucky”.
Hamilton’s Mercedes team also released a statement in response to Piquet’s comments.
“We condemn in the strongest terms any use of racist or discriminatory language of any kind,” is said. “Lewis has spearheaded our sport’s efforts to combat racism, and he is a true champion of diversity on and off track.
“Together, we share a vision for a diverse and inclusive motorsport, and this incident underlines the fundamental importance of continuing to strive for a brighter future.”
Piquet has a history of making offensive remarks: he made insulting comments about Nigel Mansell’s wife whilst they were team-mates at Williams, speculated about Ayrton Senna’s sexuality in a derogatory manner and said “I’m alive,” when asked who was the better driver out of him and his late Brazilian rival.