Lewis Hamilton’s Radio Outbursts Show His Undying Passion

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion, Lewis Hamilton, may have the second most experience in the sport with 362 grand prix starts, but his motivation remains as strong as ever. His recent radio comments during the Miami Grand Prix, although seemingly feisty, are proof of this burning desire to win.

Ferrari’s Strategy Under Scrutiny

The strategy of Ferrari was once again under the microscope during Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix. Hamilton and his teammate Charles Leclerc found themselves in a predicament, both vying for the same piece of tarmac.

Starting on hard tyres from 12th on the grid, Hamilton moved up to eighth position shortly after his pitstop. However, he grew increasingly frustrated with Leclerc’s car in front of him, now that Hamilton was on a softer compound. Over team radio, he expressed his frustration about “burning up his tyres”, lamented “not good teamwork”, and added a sarcastic remark, “have a tea break while you’re at it”.

Despite these comments, Hamilton later clarified that they were ‘sarcasm, not even anger’. He emphasized, “I mean, it was all PG, at least. Right? For sure, I don’t know what you’re going to write, whether I was disrespectful or whatever. Honestly, I didn’t feel it was.

Hamilton further explained, “I was just like, come on, guys, I just want to win. I’ve still got that fire in my belly. I can feel a little bit of it really coming out there. I’m not going to apologize for being a fighter. I’m not going to apologize for still wanting it. And I know everyone in the team does too.

Ferrari’s Dilemma and Team Harmony

Ferrari eventually asked Leclerc to let Hamilton through, but the Briton failed to make significant progress against Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The same dilemma arose again, with roles reversed, as Leclerc’s more durable hard rubber proved more competitive towards the end of the race.

In the end, Hamilton stepped aside for his teammate to have a shot at catching Antonelli, but the red and blue cars still finished seventh and eighth. Team boss Frederic Vasseur then made a point of clearing the air with his drivers to maintain harmony within the squad.

The Future of Ferrari

The Miami race was the first grand prix this season where Ferrari failed to contend for a podium finish, but Hamilton remains optimistic about the team’s future. He believes that upcoming upgrades and stringent tests on front wing flexibility will improve their performance relative to their rivals.

I truly believe that when we fix some of the problems we have with the car, we’ll be back in the fight with the Mercedes, with the Bulls,” Hamilton said. “And it just can’t come quicker.” He looks forward to the time where he can fight for a podium finish again.