Lewis Hamilton unapologetic for terse exchange with Ferrari at Miami Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton has made it clear that he will not say sorry for his intense competitiveness following his tense interactions and visible frustration with his Ferrari team at the Miami Grand Prix. He believed these incidents only showed his unwavering drive to excel on the track.

Expressing his desire to win, Hamilton stated, “I was like, come on guys, I want to win. I’ve still got my fire in my belly. I’m not going to apologise for being a fighter. I’m not going to apologise for still wanting it. I know everyone in the team does too.”

Despite finishing eighth in the race dominated by McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, Hamilton requested Ferrari to swap his position with his teammate Charles Leclerc, who was ahead, as Hamilton felt he was faster. He was frustrated with the delay in the team’s decision-making process, remarking, “have a tea break while you’re at it.” He criticized it as “not good teamwork” and even sarcastically questioned whether he should yield to the pursuing Williams of Carlos Sainz after the positions were switched back.

Hamilton downplayed the significance of the exchanges, mentioning that he and team principal Fred Vasseur had a conversation right after the race to clear the air. Vasseur expressed satisfaction with the team’s decisions and understood Hamilton’s perspective, acknowledging the pressure they face during races.

Vasseur confirmed that if positions are switched to aid an attack, but no advantage is gained, they will revert to the original order, as they did in Miami.