Lewis Hamilton has insisted ‘things are cool’ with Mercedes after he vented his frustrations about race strategy at last weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix.
Mercedes were in a strong position to pick up solid points and even potentially fight for podium spots in Singapore after Hamilton and George Russell qualified third and fourth fastest respectively.
But Hamilton’s race was compromised after being forced into an early pit stop due to the soft tyre compound he started on.
The seven-time world champion vented his frustrations over team radio and said after the race that he was ‘perplexed’ as to why Mercedes put him on the softs to start.
Hamilton went on to admit he was ‘so angry’ in the post-race debrief, leading to further questions about his relationship with the team as he prepares to leave in a few months.
The 39-year-old has just six races remaining as a Mercedes driver before he departs for Ferrari in the New Year.
But Hamilton has moved to shut down any suggestions of a falling out with Mercedes in the wake of the Singapore Grand Prix.
The British racing superstar put out a statement on social media where he appeared to backtrack on his initial frustrations with the team.
“Hey all, heading into the weekend focussed on training for the next race,” his post began.
“I know there has been a lot of chat around the last one and our strategy in Singapore which just didn’t work.
“When that happens it’s natural to be frustrated and easy for me to speak out in that frustration.
“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.
Lewis Hamilton will leave Mercedes at the end of the year
Getty
“We also miscalculated what others might do.
“Make no mistake though, things are cool with the team.
“As with all successful partnerships, you have to have some lows to have the highs.
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Lewis Hamilton says he agreed with the decision
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“We’re not afraid of those tricky conversations and challenging moments which is why we have achieved so much together.
“We will support each other to the very end. It’s all love. See you in Austin.”