Lewis Hamilton has admitted that he did not show his best side during the Dutch Grand Prix after frustrated radio messages and post-race comments aimed at Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion finished fourth at Zandvoort, behind George Russell. Hamilton believes time lost behind team-mate Charles Leclerc cost him a chance to fight for the podium.
Hamilton was running a different strategy and felt he had the advantage on fresher tyres. When he caught Leclerc, he told Ferrari that he was faster.
“I’m quicker than Charles. These tyres are better.”
The frustration increased as the two Ferrari cars continued to lose time. Hamilton later said: “We are just losing time!”
When Leclerc eventually pitted, Hamilton responded sarcastically.
“A great way of wasting time guys, good job.”
Hamilton reflects on Instagram
Hamilton continued to criticise Ferrari after the race. He also pointed to Mercedes’ decision to quickly ask George Russell to let championship leader Kimi Antonelli through later in the race.
However, Hamilton took a more measured approach on Monday, August 24. After reviewing his radio and television comments, he accepted responsibility for his reaction.
“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,” Hamilton wrote on Instagram.
“But that wasn’t the best version of me. I take responsibility for that, and I’ll be better.”
Hamilton also made clear that his frustration comes from his desire to succeed with Ferrari.
“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.”
His comments represent a clear change in tone after a tense afternoon at Zandvoort. The Lewis Hamilton Dutch GP story therefore became about more than Ferrari’s strategy. It also highlighted the pressure Hamilton continues to feel as he tries to deliver results with his new team.
Looking ahead
Hamilton and Ferrari will next head to Monza for the Italian Grand Prix. The race takes place on the weekend of September 4-6.
Monza provides Ferrari with an important opportunity to respond after leaving Zandvoort without a podium.
For Hamilton, it will also be a chance to put the Dutch Grand Prix frustration behind him.
His decision to take responsibility for his comments could help draw a line under the controversy. More importantly, the Lewis Hamilton Dutch GP fallout shows how strongly the seven-time champion feels about Ferrari’s progress.
The next challenge is to turn that passion into results on track.
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