Ferrari defends Dutch GP strategy after Hamilton criticism

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur addressed Lewis Hamilton's visible frustration during the Dutch Grand Prix, explaining strategic decisions that led to radio outbursts from the seven-time world champion. Hamilton finished fourth in the race at Zandvoort on August 23, 2026, narrowly missing the podium after a series of contested calls from the pit wall.

The central moment of tension occurred midway through the 72-lap race. Hamilton, on fresher tires, was stuck behind teammate Charles Leclerc and urged the team for permission to overtake. Ferrari instead chose to pit Leclerc, but a delayed execution cost Hamilton time as rivals ahead extended their lead. Hamilton expressed his irritation on the team radio, sarcastically stating, "Great way of wasting time guys, good job!"

Later, Hamilton found himself leading the race on old tires with rivals Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli closing in rapidly. He questioned the strategy directly over the radio, asking, "Are you using me as a guinea pig?" He was eventually overtaken and finished behind Norris, Antonelli, and George Russell.

Vasseur defended the team's approach, stating they withheld the full strategy from Hamilton to avoid...