Hamilton Acknowledges Singapore Strategy Error Before U.S. Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton, ahead of the United States Grand Prix, has taken accountability for a poor strategic decision that cost him and Ferrari a podium finish in Singapore. The seven-time World Champion was poised for a third-place finish, which would have secured a double podium for Ferrari alongside his teammate Charles Leclerc. However, Hamilton's choice not to pit for fresh tyres under a Virtual Safety Car led to him finishing sixth.

During the media session in Austin, Hamilton discussed the decision. He had hoped a different tyre strategy might give him a better chance against Max Verstappen, the eventual race winner. "I'm always looking at ways to win," Hamilton explained. "I wanted to try something different, not just follow Charles. We assumed Max would be quicker, and the strategy showed us finishing P2 and P3. That's not enough for me; I wanted more options."

Hamilton acknowledged his error shortly after making it. "In a split second, I decided to stay out during the VSC," he admitted. "As soon as I passed the pit lane, I knew it was probably the wrong call, but I owned up to it and moved on." He emphasized that such decisions are part of how he challenges both himself and the team, stating, "I truly believe my job is to challenge the team and myself continuously."

Despite the setback, Hamilton remains optimistic about Ferrari's progress. "We've had good conversations about how we can improve together," he noted, adding that the collaboration within the team remains strong. "It hurts when I lose points for the team, but I'll double my efforts to avoid it happening again."

Ferrari showed strong pace in Singapore, but Hamilton acknowledges that Mercedes and Red Bull have been formidable opponents. He's not expecting any dramatic changes in the competitive landscape for the upcoming race, despite a minor upgrade to the car. "Mercedes had their moment, McLaren stepped up, and now Red Bull seems to be dominating. I don't see why that would change, but I hope we can be competitive," he said, looking ahead to the challenge in Austin.