Lewis Hamilton Apologizes to Ferrari After Pit Strategy Gamble Backfires in Singapore
Seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton took full responsibility for a failed pit strategy gamble at the Singapore Grand Prix, issuing an apology to Ferrari after dropping from third on the grid to a sixth-place finish.
SINGAPORE — Lewis Hamilton took full accountability following a frustrating Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday night, issuing an immediate apology to his Ferrari team after a questionable pit strategy call cost him a spot on the Marina Bay podium.
Starting from third on the grid after a strong qualifying effort, Hamilton ran in podium contention during the opening stint of the 62-lap night race. However, a bold strategy decision—aimed at undercutting the lead group—backfired severely as heavy street-circuit traffic and accelerated tire degradation crippled his race pace during the mid-game.
While teammate Charles Leclerc executed a cleaner stint to secure second place behind race winner Max Verstappen, Hamilton slipped down the order, eventually crossing the line in a disappointing sixth place behind the McLaren duo of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
"Sorry, boys. I let you down today with that strategy," Hamilton radioed to the Ferrari pit wall immediately after passing the checkered flag. "It was my call, and I lost us valuable points. I'll try and make up for it in the next one."
Addressing the media in the paddock later, Hamilton reiterated that the aggressive strategy was a calculated risk he personally advocated for in pursuit of victory rather than playing it safe for points.
With Ferrari continuing its push in the Constructors' Championship, Hamilton pledged to regroup alongside team engineers ahead of the next round in the 2026 campaign.