Lewis Hamilton apologises for Ferrari criticism as FIA condemns stewards abuse – F1 round-up

Lewis Hamilton has apologised for his radio and TV comments about Ferrari's strategy at the Dutch Grand Prix, while the FIA has condemned online abuse of stewards. Elsewhere, Kimi Antonelli faces a home-race grid penalty, George Russell questions Mercedes' deployment, and Fernando Alonso gives a mixed verdict on Aston Martin's upgraded Honda engine.

Why it matters:

These stories highlight the intense pressure in F1. Hamilton's apology shows how quickly emotions spill over, while the FIA's statement underscores the problem of online abuse targeting officials. With the championship battle heating up, every decision and comment carries extra weight. With Monza next, penalties and technical concerns are already shaping the title race.

The details:

• Hamilton backs down: The seven-time champion criticised Ferrari's strategy at Zandvoort, but has since apologised publicly, taking responsibility.
• FIA condemns abuse: The governing body called out abuse aimed at stewards after Franco Colapinto's penalty at the Dutch GP.
• Antonelli grid penalty: Kimi Antonelli will start his home race at Monza from the back. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff confirmed it, with George Russell also facing a potential grid drop.
• Russell's deployment claim: Russell said he had "no deployment" from the Mercedes engine when Oscar Piastri overtook him, leaving him defenceless.
• Alonso's Honda verdict: Alonso hailed Aston Martin's progress but called the upgraded Honda engine "back to square one" on driveability.

What's next:

Monza will see Antonelli fight from the back, while Russell's penalty situation remains open. Hamilton and Ferrari aim to bounce back, and the FIA's warning reminds us that officials deserve respect.