Lewis Hamilton has been fined A$500 (£288) for performing car stunts outside Melbourne’s motor racing circuit before the Australian Grand Prix in March. He was stopped by police under “Anti Hooning” laws after executing “burnout” and “fishtail” tricks in a borrowed Mercedes

The 2008 Formula 1 world champion was not in court to hear his punishment but his lawyer said Hamilton, 25, was pleading guilty to the charge of improper use of a motor vehicle.

Lawyer Sandip Mukerjea said Hamilton had publicly apologised over the incident, and suffered “embarrassment, humiliation and distress” following the subsequent media coverage.

He added that Hamilton had written two letters to the court to explain why he could not be present. He is due to drive in this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix.

Magistrate Clive Alsop said Hamilton was a role model for young people, and had a responsibility to set a good example.

“This is about somebody in a responsible position behaving like a hoon [boy racer],” said Mr Alsop.

He added that he would not record a conviction as it was the first offence of its kind by Hamilton.

A news report from the time of the incident showed his car being towed after the stop:

Video: YouTube