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LEWIS HAMILTON faced criticism from his own boss after a disappointing weekend in Brazil.
The seven-time world champion managed to earn only two points in the sprint race and qualified 13th for the Grand Prix.
Hamilton earned just two points from the Sprint and the Grand Prix combined.
Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur seemed to take a jab at Hamilton following the race.Credit: Getty
There was an element of misfortune in how the Grand Prix unfolded for Hamilton, as he suffered damage in a collision with Franco Colapinto on the opening lap.
He returned to the pits for a front wing replacement but had to retire by lap 39 due to floor damage.
Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur did not appear particularly sympathetic.
He seemed to make a pointed remark regarding Hamilton's performance compared to his teammate.
Vasseur stated: “I can’t complain about the pace this weekend – at least as far as Charles is concerned.”
Leclerc finished P5 in the sprint and surpassed Hamilton with the third-fastest lap time in qualifying, although his own Grand Prix was compromised due to contact with Kimi Antonelli.
While Leclerc objectively had better pace than Hamilton throughout the weekend in Sao Paulo, some fans were not pleased with Vasseur’s remarks.
One social media user commented: “That was a bit of a snarky remark, to be fair.”
Another added: “That was pretty shady from Vasseur.”
A third user remarked: “I hoped they signed Lewis to learn from his experience, but it seems nothing has been learned.”
Leclerc performed well in Brazil as he expanded his Championship lead over his McLaren teammate with three weekends remaining.
Hamilton, now 40, has had a frustrating debut season with Ferrari.
He trails Leclerc by 66 points in the Drivers’ Championship and has yet to secure a single podium finish, while his teammate has achieved seven.
Hamilton expressed in Brazil: “I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to deliver a good result today.
“All I can say is; you can’t give up, you’ve got to keep trying, keep pushing, and give absolutely everything. It’s not over until it’s over.
“I know this is painful, but I truly believe that hardships prepare us for something greater. I genuinely believe that something positive is ahead for us. I have to believe that.”
Leclerc has consistently outperformed Hamilton this season.Credit: Alamy
FAQs
What happened to Lewis Hamilton during the Brazilian Grand Prix?
Hamilton experienced a challenging race, finishing with only two points after a collision on the opening lap led to significant damage to his car.
How did Frederic Vasseur comment on Hamilton's performance?
Vasseur remarked that he couldn't complain about the pace of his other driver, Charles Leclerc, highlighting a contrast with Hamilton's performance.
What did Hamilton say after the race?
Hamilton expressed regret for not achieving a better result and emphasized the importance of perseverance and belief in future success.
