F1 NEWS: Carlos Sainz Questions Hamilton’s Last-Lap Defence After…read more
F1 NEWS: Carlos Sainz Questions Hamilton’s Last-Lap Defence After…read more
Carlos Sainz has voiced frustration over Lewis Hamilton’s defensive tactics during their dramatic last-lap clash at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, suggesting the Mercedes driver may have pushed the limits of the rules.
Sainz attempted a bold move into Turn 17 on the final lap as Hamilton, struggling on worn medium tyres, fought to hold position. The two made contact as Hamilton sharply turned into the corner while defending against the Williams driver’s dive up the inside.
Although the stewards reviewed the incident, neither driver received a penalty. The ruling stated that both were partially responsible, noting Sainz had not secured enough overlap to claim the racing line, while Hamilton turned in earlier than usual, contributing to the contact.
“He moved as soon as he saw me dive,” Sainz said post-race. “That created contact, which I think is quite typical, honestly. But obviously, if you follow exactly the rule book, he cannot move as much as he did. But on the last lap, that’s how it goes.”
Struggles Behind the Scenes: Tyres and Damage Hamper Sainz
Despite the late-race drama, Sainz’s Miami GP was complicated from the outset. Due to what he described as “operational mistakes,” he was forced to start the race on used qualifying tyres—an immediate disadvantage against rivals on fresh rubber.
Compounding his difficulties, Sainz picked up car damage in an early exchange with teammate Alex Albon, who later re-passed him despite team orders suggesting they freeze positions. From that point, Sainz fought to stay in touch with the midfield pack, holding off attacks from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Hamilton in the opening stint.
“I was already on the back foot, losing a few tenths per lap,” he explained. “Then I picked up damage with Alex, which affected the car’s performance, especially in Sector One where downforce is key.”
A Virtual Safety Car period played further into the hands of his competitors, allowing them to pit with minimal time loss, while Sainz had already stopped earlier. Despite decent pace on the hard tyres, the Spaniard couldn’t mount a full recovery.
Final Verdict: A Gritty Drive, but a Missed Opportunity
While Sainz delivered a valiant effort under challenging conditions, a combination of tyre disadvantage, damage, and timing left him frustrated but philosophical.
“Too many things going on today,” he said.
“We made the most of it, but there was more potential in the car. It’s a shame.”
As the 2025 F1 season rolls on, Williams will be keen to iron out operational errors and capitalize on the promising pace Sainz continues to show even when the odds are stacked against him.
