Hamilton calls Leclerc clash 'incredibly frustrating' after Mexico City Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton has returned to the subject of his first-lap clash with Charles Leclerc at the Mexico City Grand Prix, describing the episode as "incredibly frustrating" in a social media statement. He said the team and Ferrari fans deserved more than the Scuderia's two drivers costing themselves the chance to fight for victory.

The pair ran wide and off the track after Leclerc attacked into Turn 4 on the opening lap, with Hamilton attempting to defend. The confusion allowed Max Verstappen to take second from Hamilton, and Leclerc was all but certain to receive a five-second penalty, handing Verstappen the lead at the pit stop phase. Hamilton finished second behind the Red Bull driver.

Hamilton also congratulated Kimi Antonelli on becoming F1's youngest drivers' champion, and said sharing the podium with him was a highlight of his year. He called for honest reflection and learning from the episode, adding that he would keep giving everything he has.