Lewis Hamilton unaware of F1 points rules after ‘s***’ Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

Hamilton finished only tenth as Mercedes again struggled to match their rivals

Harry Latham-Coyle
Monday 28 March 2022 04:38 EDT
Comments
Lewis Hamilton finished tenth in Jeddah
Lewis Hamilton finished tenth in Jeddah (AFP via Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Lewis Hamilton had to question whether he would receive a point for finishing tenth during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after a “tough day in the office”.

Hamilton endured a difficult weekend in Jeddah, qualifying 15th and starting with his worst spot on the grid in 14 years.

Despite Mercedes again struggling to match their rivals for speed as the team struggle to adapt to overhauled aerodynamic regulations, the seven-time world champion was able to fight his way up to sixth, before pitting late in the race to drop back down the field.

He was able to gain two places in the final laps to take a place in the top ten.

Of course, the British driver is more used to populating the top scoring spaces come race close.

Indeed, Hamilton appeared a touch confused about whether he was in line for any reward in a radio exchange with engineer Pete Bonnington after crossing the line.

“Okay Lewis, so that’s P10,” said Bonnington. “Sorry about that. It’s a bit of a s*** result given all the hard work.”

Hamilton replied: “Is there even a point for that position?”

“Yeah, we do get a point,” Bonnington clarified.

Hamilton admitted his disappointment, but appreciated the efforts of his team to work him back into a competitive race position.

“That was a tough day in the office guys, but thank you so much for trying.”

Ahead of Hamilton, Max Verstappen secured his first Grand Prix triumph as world champion, pipping Charles Leclerc.

Mercedes’ other driver George Russell finished fifth though was some way behind the lead quartet as Red Bull and Ferrari again showed their early-season form.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in