Sir Lewis Hamilton has praised George Russell for taking responsibility and apologising to Valtteri Bottas for his behaviour after their high-speed crash during the 2021 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Following the crash at Tamburello, Russell jumped out of the cockpit of his Williams and approached Bottas’ car, before exchanging words with the Finn and slapping his helmet.
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After the grand prix, Russell revealed that he had asked Bottas if he was trying to kill both of them, but after reviewing the crash from different camera angles, the Williams driver posted an apology on social media.
“Yesterday wasn’t my proudest day,” Russell wrote.
“I knew it would be one of our best opportunities to score points this season and, when those points matter as much as they do to us right now, sometimes you take risks.
“It didn’t pay off and I have to take responsibility for that. Having had time to reflect on what happened afterwards, I know I should have handled the whole situation better.
“Emotions can run high in the heat of the moment and yesterday mine got the better of me. I apologise to Valtteri, to my team and to anyone who felt let down by my actions.
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“That’s not who I am and I expect more from myself, as I know others expect more from me.
“I’ve learned some tough lessons this weekend and will come out of this a better driver and a better person for the experience.
“Now it’s full focus on Portugal and a chance to show what I’m really about. Thanks for all the messages, both positive and negative. They will all help me to grow,” Russell concluded.
Reacting to Russell’s apology on Instagram, Hamilton commented: “Strength comes from vulnerability. If you don’t make the mistake you can never learn the lesson.
“Respect for taking responsibility. On to the next one.”