Hamilton admits Dutch GP frustration wasn't 'best version of me'

Lewis Hamilton says he didn't present "the best version" of himself when criticizing his Ferrari team over the radio and in TV interviews at the Dutch Grand Prix. The seven-time champion finished fourth at Zandvoort, losing time behind teammate Charles Leclerc on a different strategy, and later compared Ferrari's hesitation to Mercedes' decisive team order.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's frustration underscores Ferrari's recurring race-day execution problems. The team has shown strong pace but continues to leave points on the table, allowing Mercedes and McLaren to extend their advantages in both championships.

The details:

• Hamilton was stuck behind Leclerc during the race, costing him valuable time and a shot at a podium. He eventually finished fourth, just behind George Russell.
• After the race, he pointed out that Mercedes had no hesitation in ordering Russell to let championship leader Kimi Antonelli through, while Ferrari didn't do the same with Leclerc.
• Reflecting on Monday, Hamilton said: "In the heat of the moment frustration can come out... But that wasn't the best version of me. I take responsibility for that, and I'll be better."
• The result leaves Hamilton 59 points behind Antonelli in the standings, and he has dropped to third behind Russell, who has the same points but more wins.
• Ferrari brought a new floor and diffuser to Zandvoort, with Hamilton praising the team's development efforts.

Between the lines:

Nico Rosberg believes Ferrari have the potential for "much better results" but need to improve their execution. "There's a little bit of the feeling after every weekend of 'what could have been'," said the 2016 champion. "They keep on just not maximising weekends."

What's next:

Hamilton insists the title fight is "absolutely still on" and praised the team's direction. Formula 1 now heads to Monza for Ferrari's home race, where the Scuderia will look to turn promise into a much-needed strong result.