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Niki Lauda believes 'grid girl' ban is anti-woman

Niki Lauda hopes Formula One reconsiders its ban on 'grid girls', a decision he believes is "stupid" and "against women".

This week's announcement that the tradition of promotional models standing on the grid before F1 races will no longer continue has sparked a wave of headlines and debate in international media. While many have praised the decision, there has been criticism -- former boss Bernie Ecclestone accused F1's new owners of being "prudish", while former promotional models have started a petition against the ban.

Three-time world champion Niki Lauda, who is currently non-executive chairman of Mercedes, has added his voice to the criticism.