JUST IN: Hamilton Take Final Decision after Mercedes C….read More.
Hamilton Take Final Decision after Mercedes C….
Lewis Hamilton has released a statement on social media addressing his recent comments about Mercedes’ strategy during the Singapore Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion expressed frustration with the team’s decision to start him on the soft compound tyres, which ultimately contributed to his sixth-place finish, despite starting in an impressive third.
Hamilton’s performance at the Marina Bay Circuit looked promising after a strong qualifying session. However, race day told a different story, with his strategy proving to be a costly decision. Mercedes opted to start Hamilton on the soft compound tyres, while nearly all other drivers on the grid, except for one, began the race on the more durable medium compound.
Post-race, Hamilton opened up about his feelings, revealing that he had pushed to start on the medium tyres instead. He expressed confusion and frustration over why the team chose to split strategies between himself and teammate George Russell, who was also affected by strategy calls during the race. Hamilton described himself as “so angry” after the outcome, especially given his belief that the race could have played out differently with a more conventional approach.
In an Instagram story over the weekend, Hamilton addressed the situation directly to his fans. His message acknowledged the strategy misstep and aimed to clear up any misconceptions about his earlier comments. He also explained the reasoning behind his and the team’s decision, while also taking some responsibility for the outcome.
“Hey all, heading into the weekend focused on training for the next race,” Hamilton wrote to his followers. “I know there has been a lot of chat around the last one and our strategy in Singapore which just didn’t work.”
Hamilton went on to explain how frustration can lead to emotions running high, but admitted that the strategy choice was something he ultimately agreed to. “When that happens it’s natural to be frustrated and easy for me to speak out in that frustration,” he wrote, acknowledging that the team had hoped for a bold advantage at the start of the race by using the soft tyres.
“We knew starting on soft tyres was a bold and risky move but one that could give us an advantage at the start and I ultimately agreed with that recommendation,” Hamilton said. He also pointed out that the team underestimated what the other drivers would do, contributing to the strategic miscalculation.
Despite the disappointing result in Singapore, Hamilton is now focusing on the races ahead. The British driver’s competitiveness remains undiminished, and he will be looking to make a strong return at the next Grand Prix. Hamilton’s comments reflect his resilience and determination to move past the setback, while still acknowledging the misjudgments that affected his race performance.
This incident also highlights the fine margins and complexities of Formula 1 strategy, where decisions made before the lights go out can have a profound impact on race outcomes. For Mercedes and Hamilton, the Singapore Grand Prix served as a learning experience, and they’ll be looking to apply those lessons as the season continues.
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