Lewis Hamilton Speaks up on Qualifying Incident with Max Verstappen at Monaco GP

Lewis Hamilton opened up about the impeding incident with Max Verstappen during Qualifying at the Monaco GP.

Lewis Hamilton Speaks up on Qualifying Incident with Max Verstappen at Monaco GP

Lewis Hamilton (via Getty), Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are arch-rivals of Formula 1. Both drivers have had their fair share of moments on track that have erupted into chaos in the past. During Qualifying at the Monaco GP, the two were once again at the center of attention over an alleged impending incident. Now, Hamilton has finally explained his side of the story.

In Q2 of Qualifying, Max Verstappen was coming right behind Lewis Hamilton. There was some apparent confusion at the Ferrari pitwall with the seven-time world champion ending up impeding Verstappen who was on a quick lap. This cost the Dutchman some crucial time. With the Stewards summoning both drivers following the session.

Lewis Hamilton explained that he was actually trying to stay away from others at the time of the incident. Initially, the Briton moved off the racing line when Ferrari told him that Verstappen was on a quick lap. However, his race engineer then told him that the Red Bull was not on a slow lap. This confusion created chaos as Lewis Hamilton inadvertently impeded the reigning world champion. Though, the two reconciled following the incident when they met at Parc Ferme.

I think I was doing a good job of keeping out of the way of everyone but then the team said that Max was on a fast lap so I went to the left, then they said ‘no he’s not on a fast lap’ so I was just about to get back on power. I think I accelerated for like 10 meters or something. I was off the line but for sure distractive for him.

Lewis Hamilton said post-Qualifying

Lewis Hamilton declares ‘amazing’ feeling at Monaco with Ferrari

The Monaco GP is the most highly anticipated race on the F1 calendar. The iconic track is loved by fans and drivers alike. Lewis Hamilton’s first appearance in Monte Carlo as a Ferrari driver makes the race even more special this year. Albeit, the Briton could not have the best of sessions in Qualifying this year.

Lewis Hamilton (via Motorsport.com)
Lewis Hamilton (via Motorsport.com)

Lewis Hamilton finished qualifying in fourth place, ahead of Max Verstappen. The 40-year-old admitted that it was not the best day in the office for the team with Charles Leclerc in second place. However, Hamilton claimed that racing for Ferrari in Monaco was an amazing feeling. The British driver seemed on par with the two McLarens over the course of the session but lost out on his final run.

Not the greatest day but the weekend has been generally going quite week, it felt amazing to be in the Ferrari around this track and the car has felt really good.

Lewis Hamilton added

Lewis Hamilton remains full of energy for the Monaco GP. The seven-time world champion might have a chance to battle for victory on Sunday, but this will not be easy. The tight nature of Monaco makes overtaking incredibly difficult with teams relying on race strategy. As such, the Ferrari pitwall might need to come with something clever before the race for Hamilton to potentially clinch his first win for the Prancing Horse.

Read More: Max Verstappen Gives up on Expectations for Monaco GP After Dismal P5 in Qualifying