Lewis Hamilton says things fine with team after criticizing Singapore GP strategy

Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton (39) stated that relations with the Mercedes team remain positive, just days after expressing dissatisfaction with their strategy during the recent Singapore Grand Prix, where he finished in sixth place.

Hamilton had secured third on the grid but felt frustrated when the team instructed him to begin the race on soft tyres, contrary to his preference for medium tyres.

"I fought as hard as I could to start on the medium tyre, but the team insisted on the soft ... everyone else was on medium," Hamilton remarked later at an event.

James Allison, the team's technical director, admitted that the decision was a misstep, acknowledging that it compromised Hamilton's race performance. Currently, Hamilton ranks sixth in the championship standings with 174 points, while Red Bull's Max Verstappen leads with 331 points.

Nevertheless, Hamilton took to social media on Saturday to describe the soft tyre strategy as a bold and risky choice that had the potential to provide him with an early advantage, although it ultimately did not succeed.

"I understand there has been considerable discussion regarding our strategy in Singapore, which unfortunately did not yield the desired results. It is natural to feel frustration in such situations, and I may have expressed that frustration," the British driver wrote on Instagram.

"However, let me clarify that all is well with the team ... we are not hesitant to engage in difficult conversations and navigate challenging moments, which is a testament to our collective achievements. We will continue to support one another until the very end."

Hamilton emphasized that his attention is now directed towards the upcoming race scheduled in Austin next month.

SportsLigue