Breaking News: ‘Don’t be so sensitive’ Hamilton tells Ferrari boss after radio dispute
Lewis Hamilton’s frustration with Ferrari’s decision-making process reached a boiling point during the Miami Grand Prix, as the seven-time world champion expressed his dismay over the team’s hesitation to let him pass teammate Charles Leclerc. Hamilton’s irritation was palpable over the radio, as he felt that precious time was being wasted while he trailed Leclerc on the track.
The incident occurred when Hamilton, who had progressed from 12th on the grid, found himself on the faster medium tire compound compared to Leclerc’s hard tire. As they both passed Carlos Sainz in the same corner, Hamilton immediately requested that the pit wall switch the cars, but was initially told to wait. Ferrari then informed him that they would stick with the current situation, ensuring that Hamilton remained within DRS range of Leclerc.
Hamilton’s response was laced with frustration, as he described the call as “not good teamwork” and referenced the Chinese Grand Prix, where he had offered to let Leclerc through when his teammate was going faster behind him. Ferrari eventually relented, switching the cars, but Hamilton felt that crucial life had been taken out of his tires while he trailed Leclerc.
The 38-year-old’s sarcastic remarks over the radio, including a suggestion to “have a tea break while you’re at it,” were a clear indication of his exasperation. Hamilton’s frustration was further compounded by the fact that he was unable to make significant inroads into Kimi Antonelli’s advantage, and was ultimately told to let Leclerc back through in the closing stages.
In the aftermath of the race, Hamilton explained that his radio outbursts were a result of the team’s struggles, and insisted that he wouldn’t apologize for “being a fighter.” The British driver emphasized that he still has the fire in his belly to win, and believes that Ferrari can turn their season around once they address their current issues.
“I don’t know what you’re going to write or whether I was disrespectful or whatever, I honestly don’t feel I was,” Hamilton said. “I was just like, ‘come on, guys. I want to win’. I’ve still got that fire in my belly. I could feel a little bit of it really coming out there, and I’m not going to apologize for being a fighter, I’m not going to apologize for still wanting it.”
Leclerc, who had outperformed Hamilton in the previous three rounds, struggled similarly in Miami, and joined his teammate in questioning the team’s decision-making process. The Monegasque driver acknowledged that Ferrari’s management of the race was not ideal, but emphasized that there are no bad feelings between him and Hamilton.
“It’s a difficult situation,” Leclerc said. “I unfortunately will go for the boring answer and will not comment too much. It’s obvious that’s not the way we want to manage a race. We will discuss it internally in order to make better decisions. There are no bad feelings for Lewis, absolutely not. It’s just as a team we need to do better and today was a proof of that.”
As Ferrari continues to grapple with their struggles, Hamilton’s frustration serves as a reminder of the high expectations that come with driving for the iconic Italian team. With the season still in its early stages, Ferrari will be hoping to turn their fortunes around and provide Hamilton with a car capable of challenging for victories.
