Lewis Hamilton has apologised for his frustrated radio messages during the Dutch Grand Prix after being held up by Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc.
Race frustration
In the second half of the race, the veteran Brit was left furious when he found himself stuck behind Leclerc for several laps. He thought he was quicker and was eager to push on, but Leclerc seemed reluctant to let him through and refused to pit when asked.
When the Monegasque driver eventually pitted, allowing Hamilton through into clean air, the latter made his feelings clear over the radio with a sarcastic comment, saying: "Great waste of time, there, guys." Later in the race, the 41-year-old grew frustrated over potential pit strategies during a virtual safety car period, asking his engineer: "Are you using me as a guinea pig?"
Comparison to Mercedes
After the chequered flag, Hamilton drew comparisons to how Mercedes handled a similar situation between George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, who swapped places despite Russell's reluctance to do so.
"I'm here to win, and it is difficult when you see the two Mercedes drivers; they get the call, and it's done, and they execute straight away," said Hamilton.
"They let Kimi by and let him get on with the race, and I was on a different strategy, and it was not the same here. That's a little difficult, but we'll take it offline, and when I go back now I'll speak to them about it."
Apology and result
Hamilton ultimately finished fourth at Zandvoort, one place ahead of Leclerc, after trying and failing to overtake George Russell for a podium spot in the closing stages.
He has since apologised for his comments in a lengthy Instagram post, explaining that sometimes certain things are said in the heat of the moment.
He wrote: "A tough weekend, but we leave with valuable points for the team and signs that we’re moving in the right direction. I’m incredibly proud of everyone back at the factory who continues to bring updates, find performance and push us forward."
"To the team at the track, thank you. The commitment and effort never go unnoticed. We still have work to do, particularly over one lap, but we’ll keep digging in, learning and improving together."
"I’ve listened back to some of my radio and TV comments. In the heat of the moment frustration can come out, especially when you care as deeply as I do. But that wasn’t the best version of me. I take responsibility for that, and I’ll be better."
"That passion comes from believing in this team, the people in it, and what we’re building together. The direction is clear. The belief is there. And the fight is absolutely still on."
"Thank you for sticking with us and with me. We’ll keep building, keep pushing and keep fighting. We’re coming."
