Lewis Hamilton has admitted that his sharp radio exchanges with Ferrari during the Dutch Grand Prix were "not the best version of him", following a tense afternoon at Zandvoort.
The 41-year-old came home in fourth place as Formula One returned from its summer break, eager to kickstart his pursuit of an eighth world championship.
However, his race was marked by frustration over Ferrari’s failure to move team-mate Charles Leclerc aside quickly enough, a delay Hamilton suggested prevented him from overtaking George Russell for the final podium spot.
Having shown stronger pace during the middle of the race, Ferrari asked Leclerc to pit, but the Monegasque driver questioned the instruction and stayed out for an extra lap.
"Great way of wasting time guys, good job," Hamilton sarcastically said.
After stating post-race that he had lost "several seconds" which proved costly at the finish, the seven-time world champion reflected on his "heat of the moment" remarks on Instagram on Monday evening.
"I’ve listened back to some of my radio and TV comments. In the heat of the moment frustration can come out, especially when you care as deeply as I do," he wrote.
"But that wasn’t the best version of me. I take responsibility for that, and I’ll be better.
"That passion comes from believing in this team, the people in it, and what we’re building together. The direction is clear. The belief is there. And the fight is absolutely still on.
"Thank you for sticking with us and with me. We’ll keep building, keep pushing and keep fighting."
Hamilton leaves Zandvoort level with Russell in second place in the championship standings, sitting 59 points behind leader Kimi Antonelli. He mounted a late chase against Russell, but his progress was hampered by a late virtual safety car.
With his lone victory of the season coming in Barcelona in June, Hamilton maintains that he remains firmly in the title hunt after spending the summer break conditioning himself for the remainder of the year.
"A tough weekend, but we leave with valuable points for the team and signs that we’re moving in the right direction," he added.
"I’m incredibly proud of everyone back at the factory who continues to bring updates, find performance and push us forward.
"To the team at the track, thank you. The commitment and effort never go unnoticed."
