David Coulthard on Lewis Hamilton: “I’ve never seen him like this before”

Lewis Hamilton lost his temper at the historic Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort. The seven-time Formula 1 champion was not happy with how the Ferrari pit crew acted – or rather, failed to act. During the race, Lewis demanded over the radio: “I’m faster than Leclerc, my tyres are better.” Translation: Let me past Charles, for goodness’ sake!

Ferrari wanted to bring Leclerc in at that point, but Charles wasn’t up for it; he stayed out for two laps longer than planned. Hamilton commented fiercely over the radio: “We’re just wasting time here!”

A short while later, Hamilton added: “What a fabulous way to waste time – great work, lads!”

Days later, the seven-time world champion backtracked when he posted the following on his social media: “I’ve listened back to some of my comments from the radio and TV. In the heat of the moment, frustration can get the better of you, especially when racing is as close to your heart as it is to mine. But that wasn’t the best of me. I take responsibility for it and will do better.”

Scot David Coulthard, a 13-time Grand Prix winner and 2001 World Championship runner-up, says on the ‘Up to Speed’ podcast: “I do think he had some valid points there. I’ve never heard Lewis Hamilton like that on the radio before. I’ve never heard him raise his voice in anger before.”

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For Coulthard, who has competed in 246 Grand Prix races, Hamilton’s fierce reaction is also a clear sign of how fiercely the fire still burns within this exceptional racing driver.

Weeks ago, Coulthard remarked about Hamilton: “That’s the Hamilton of old again; he’s rediscovered his old spark. And in this form, he’s capable of anything.”