Lewis Hamilton admits 'that wasn't the best version of me' after criticising Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton says the frustration he voiced at Ferrari's race strategy at the Dutch Grand Prix 'was not the best version' of him.

The 41-year-old said he took responsibility for the comments he made on team radio and then in post-race interviews, and added that he would 'be better' in future.

It was a disappointing weekend for the seven-time world champion in the context of the title race - his P7 in the Sprint and P4 in the Dutch Grand Prix saw him fall further behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli. Hamilton now trails Antonelli by 59 points.

It was during and after Sunday's race where Hamilton's frustration was most evident, with the British star believing flawed strategy cost him a podium position.

READ MORE: 'Is this AI?' - F1 fans speculate over controversial Verstappen crash footage

Hamilton critical of Ferrari in post-race interviews

Afterwards he was critical of the way things had played out, explaining: "Today was definitely frustrating for me. I'm here to win and I really believe that this team can win.

"We couldn't win this race but to win championships you have to pick up every point and the last few races have been difficult with penalties and stuff and then, today, I lost several seconds behind Charles which I think ultimately would have made the difference at the end.

"But we will take it offline. My goal is to try and lead this team to the championship and we've got some work to do for sure."

Lewis 'takes responsibility' for his comments

Fast forward 24 hours to Monday evening, and Hamilton - having had the time to reflect on the weekend and his comments - took to social media.

It was a measured and honest critique of the way he had come across both during and after the race, and a clear message that he and Ferrari are in this together.

"A tough weekend, but we leave with valuable points for the team and signs that we’re moving in the right direction,:" he began.

"I’m incredibly proud of everyone back at the factory who continues to bring updates, find performance and push us forward. To the team at the track, thank you. The commitment and effort never go unnoticed.

"We still have work to do, particularly over one lap, but we’ll keep digging in, learning and improving together.

'That wasn't the best version of me'

"I’ve listened back to some of my radio and TV comments. In the heat of the moment frustration can come out, especially when you care as deeply as I do. But that wasn’t the best version of me. I take responsibility for that, and I’ll be better.

"That passion comes from believing in this team, the people in it, and what we’re building together. The direction is clear. The belief is there. And the fight is absolutely still on.

"Thank you for sticking with us and with me. We’ll keep building, keep pushing and keep fighting. We’re coming."

F1 HEADLINES: Lewis Hamilton fumes at Ferrari as stars hit with huge Dutch Grand Prix penalties

READ MORE: $6billion Mercedes make bombshell claim in F1's upgrades race - 'We haven't got the money'