Lewis Hamilton distances himself from role in Mercedes review enquiry

Hamilton, Mercedes, Qatar — Photo: © LAT Images

Qatar Grand Prix

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Hamilton distances himself from role in Mercedes review enquiry

Hamilton insisted he was "fully supportive" of his team

Ian Parkes & Ewan Gale

Thursday 18 November 2021 16:10 Updated: 16:14

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Lewis Hamilton has distanced himself from playing any part in Mercedes' decision to request a review into why F1 title rival Max Verstappen was not penalised in Brazil.

On lap 48 of 71 of the São Paulo Grand Prix, the Briton was attempting to take the lead into turn four at Interlagos when he appeared to be run off track by the Red Bull driver.

The incident was not investigated by the race stewards but following the release of Verstappen's onboard footage, Mercedes asked the FIA to review the incident, citing new evidence that was not available at the time.

Despite going on to win the race, Hamilton said: "I have not actually been a part of it.

"Of course, I am aware of it. I am fully supportive of my team but I am literally just trying to give all of my energy into this weekend and making sure we arrive and hit the ground running.

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"I have no idea where they are going with the discussion or what could be the outcome. I am just not giving any energy or time [to it] at all."

Why Hamilton didn't complain post-race

In the post-race press conference for the race at Interlagos, Hamilton's verdict of the incident was "It was fine, this is what a world championship battle should look like".

Asked if he had any more to add ahead of the inaugural Qatar Grand Prix this weekend, the seven-time champion said: "Not really.

"The reason at the time I said that was because that is just the mentality you have to take. If you sit in the car and complain, it will only hold you back so in the moment I just had to keep moving forwards.

"Also, it is difficult to judge on something you have not seen all the angles. We looked at them and have a different viewpoint now."

Pushed for his point of view after reviewing footage, he replied: "Honestly, it is not something I really want to dive too much into.

"I haven't looked at all of the angles, I have seen the onboard footage, for example, that came out.

"I am just trying to focus on the fact that we did something remarkable and unexpected. Just trying not to focus on any negatives.

"Right now, the team are in discussion, so I am just leaving them to it."