Lewis Hamilton has publicly apologised to his Ferrari team following a series of frustrated radio exchanges during the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort.
The seven-time world champion grew increasingly agitated during the second half of the race after receiving little communication from Ferrari regarding strategy updates.
Much of his frustration stemmed from being stuck behind teammate Charles Leclerc, who was running on older and slower tyres than Hamilton at the time.
“Great way of wasting time guys, good job,” a sarcastic Hamilton fired over the radio once Leclerc finally pitted on lap 43, making his feelings abundantly clear to the pit wall.
After reflecting on his comments, Hamilton took to social media to address the situation directly and take personal responsibility for his behaviour on the airwaves.
“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.
“But that wasn’t the best version of me. I take responsibility for that, and I’ll be better.”
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur later explained that the team had deliberately withheld strategy details from Hamilton to avoid alerting rival teams to their intentions during the race.
The situation was further complicated by the fact that Ferrari had originally planned to pit Leclerc earlier, but was forced to extend his stint by an additional lap due to traffic on the circuit.
Hamilton pointed to Mercedes’ smooth driver swap between George Russell and Kimi Antonelli as an example of the slicker race weekend execution he feels Ferrari still needs to achieve.
Despite the frustrations, Hamilton was keen to emphasise his belief in the Ferrari project and the progress the team has made throughout the season.
“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,” he added.
Ferrari’s relentless upgrade programme has already delivered results, with both Hamilton and Leclerc each securing a grand prix victory in recent months.
Hamilton currently sits third in the drivers’ championship, level on points with second-placed George Russell heading into the remainder of the season.
“I’m incredibly proud of everyone back at the factory who continues to bring updates, find performance and push us forward,” the Briton wrote, praising the wider team effort.
“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.”
The Dutch Grand Prix ultimately ended with Russell defending third place aided by a late virtual safety car, leaving both Hamilton and Leclerc to finish fourth and fifth respectively.