Schumacher banned from wearing amulet - 1st April 08:19am GMT

Michael Schumacher must ditch the lucky charm which has helped steer him to five world crowns.

Motor-racing bosses have slapped a ban on bling.

And that means the Ferrari superstar will line up in Sunday’s Bahrain Grand Prix without the ceramic amulet he usually wears around his neck.

The move follows an FIA world council ruling that drivers will no longer be allowed to race sporting earrings, necklaces, watches and even wedding rings.

The ‘no jewellery’ rule has been introduced on safety grounds, amid claims the objects can cause additional hazards in a big crash.

Schumacher’s wife Corinna bought him the amulet at the start of the 2000 season. He went on to win the first of his titles for Ferrari.

King Schuey, 36, said: “I can’t describe what this amulet means to me.

“It has brought me so much luck during my title seasons with Ferrari.

“But if the FIA say I can’t wear it, I won’t. Rules are rules and it doesn’t matter if they are good or bad.”

Other drivers to fall fowl of the changes include Liuzzi and Klien who will have to take out their earrings.