Hamilton: Qatar collision ‘not Russell’s fault’

Lewis Hamilton feels that Mercedes team-mate George Russell is to not blame for his or her opening lap collision on the Qatar Grand Prix.

Firstly in Lusail, Tender-tyre shod Hamilton get a greater begin on the racing line than P2 Medium starter Russell on the run right down to Flip 1.

Hamilton tried to go across the exterior of Russell and pole-sitter Max Verstappen, however the left-front of Russell collided with the right-rear of Hamilton.

The tyre was plucked from the rim as Hamilton retired on the spot with Russell spinning round, however was in a position to proceed after pitting for repairs.

Hamilton was additionally positioned below investigation by the stewards for crossing the observe whereas the Security Automotive was deployed, one thing prohibited by the rules.

Hamilton’s declaration

“Within the warmth of the second, I felt so annoyed as a result of I felt this faucet from the rear, however I do not assume George had wherever to go,” Hamilton informed media together with RacingNews365.

“It was simply an unlucky situation, however I’m comfortable to take duty as a result of that’s my function. I would like to return at take a look at it, however I do not really feel prefer it was George’s fault.

“Earlier than the race, we knew that we might have completely different tyres so he was like: ‘Why do not we work collectively as we speak’, so we’re speaking about working collectively.

“It was not our plan to come back collectively, it’s simply actually gutting for the staff who has labored so exhausting to be in that place and it’s simply actually unhappy for everyone.

“It’s irritating whoever you contact with, however it’s [more so] when each of us spun out and went down the order.”