Hamilton Fumes at ‘Nuts’ F1 Penalty in Mexico
Lewis Hamilton has expressed his frustration over a contentious 10-second penalty at the Mexican Grand Prix, labeling the decision as “kind of nuts” after he felt treated unfairly compared to other drivers.
The seven-time world champion’s penalty came after he rejoined the track in front of Max Verstappen following a track limits violation, leading to a disappointing eighth-place finish.
Hamilton’s Frustration Over Penalty
Hamilton’s penalty stemmed from an incident at Turn 4 where he cut the corner, ultimately gaining an advantage. While the Mercedes star felt that others, including teammate Charles Leclerc and Verstappen, had also circumvented regulations without repercussions, it was his penalty that proved costly.
During the early stages of the race, Hamilton was embroiled in a tense battle with Verstappen. The two drivers exchanged positions aggressively, with Hamilton being forced wide at Turn 1. Hamilton’s attempt to navigate the dusty exit road ultimately resulted in the penalty that dashed his hopes for a podium.
“That’s such bulls—, man!” Hamilton exclaimed on his team radio immediately after the ruling.
Race Director’s Decision Under Scrutiny
Hamilton’s bone of contention revolved around the lack of consistency in officiating track limits. While he acknowledged that Verstappen and Leclerc also cut corners, he was the only driver penalised.
“I was pretty much the same as all the other people around me,” he noted after the race.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur also voiced his confusion over the severity of Hamilton’s penalty, suggesting that previous incidents warranted different treatment.
Vasseur commented on Hamilton’s penalty, stating, “You can discuss about… we didn’t follow the race director note. But 10 seconds, I don’t remember when someone took 10 seconds for similar incidents.” He further pointed out how this ruling potentially cost Ferrari vital positions in the race.
Stewards Respond to Controversy
After reviewing the incident, the stewards concluded that while Hamilton’s speed prevented him from following the designated escape route, he ultimately gained a lasting advantage by overtaking Verstappen without relinquishing the position.
In their official ruling, they confirmed that Hamilton’s actions fell foul of the rules, but noted that they understood his inability to comply with the Race Director’s instructions due to the circumstances.
The debate over track limits and penalties is an ongoing issue in Formula 1, and Hamilton’s experience in Mexico raises questions of fairness and consistency in officiating decisions. As the season progresses, fans and drivers alike will be keenly observing how race officials navigate these intricate and often contentious situations.
For Hamilton, the result at the Mexico GP serves as a stark reminder of the fine margins that can dictate success in the sport. With growing pressure and anticipation ahead of the next race, one can only wonder how this incident will impact his mindset moving forward.