Simon Cowell made things a little awkward during the filming of the bootcamp stage of this year’s ‘X Factor’ on Sunday (July 10). The music mogul decided to tease fellow judge Nicole Scherzinger about her ex-boyfriend Lewis Hamilton, but the former Pussycat Doll didn't see the funny side.

Simon Cowell and Nicole ScherzingerNicole Scherzinger was teased by Simon Cowell about Lewis Hamilton.

According to The Mirror, a contestant named Niall Sexton decided to perform Scherzinger’s 2014 hit ‘Run’ and afterwards Cowell decided to take a swipe at his fellow judge. “What’s the song called? Run. Why does it make me think of Lewis Hamilton? He’s fast. Let’s dedicate that to Lewis, shall we?” Cowell said.

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Cowell’s joke made some of the audience gasp, while judge Sharon Osbourne stroked Scherzinger’s arm. Nicole then sarcastically responded: “Yeah, let’s dedicate those lyrics and that song to Lewis shall we?”

An onlooker told The Mirror: “It seemed an ill-timed joke and Sharon seemed to sense Nicole’s unease. He was clearly suggesting Lewis ran away from Nicole and split up their relationship.” Hamilton and Scherzinger announced their beak-up in 2015, after dating on and off for seven years.

Hamilton is said to be now dating pop star Rita Ora after they were pictured getting close during Ora’s recent holiday in Montenegro. A source told The Sun: "They looked very cosy and flirty. It was clear Rita had had a couple of drinks and Lewis was loving every second of it.”

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"While they may not be a couple they were clearly enjoying themselves. They both had huge grins on their faces.” On Sunday Hamilton won his fourth British Grand Prix and Ora was spotted attending a bash in his honour that night at London nightclub Tape.