Lewis Hamilton Embraces Positivity Amidst Las Vegas Grand Prix Controversy, Criticizes ‘Negative’ Views on the Event
In contrast to the critiques surrounding the off-track spectacle of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton opted for a positive perspective and subtly criticized those expressing negativity about the event. The Grand Prix marked Formula 1’s first self-run and self-promoted race under Liberty Media’s ownership, introducing significant changes to the usual race dynamics.
While much attention has been drawn to the elaborate off-track festivities in Las Vegas, not everyone in the paddock shared the same enthusiasm. Max Verstappen, in particular, emerged as one of the most vocal critics, openly expressing his dissatisfaction with everything related to the event except for the actual driving experience on the track. Hamilton’s remarks hint at a divergence in opinions within the F1 community regarding the approach and execution of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Lewis Hamilton: Las Vegas has proved the critics wrong
Hamilton experienced a varied race on Sunday in Las Vegas, finishing in seventh place after encountering a puncture that significantly impacted his performance.
Starting from the 10th position on the grid, Hamilton found himself entangled in the Turn 1 chaos, sustaining damage. Despite this setback, he fought his way back into the points. However, a seemingly minor contact with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri resulted in damage for both cars, with Hamilton suffering a right-rear puncture.
While Hamilton’s seventh-place finish wasn’t sufficient to keep him in contention for second place in the Drivers’ Championship, especially with Sergio Perez securing a third-place finish on the day, the seven-time World Champion remained upbeat. Reflecting on the race, Hamilton acknowledged the challenges, particularly starting on the hard tire, but maintained a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity.
“It was a pretty challenging race. I started on the hard tyre which was tricky at the beginning,” Hamilton told Sky F1.
“I got hit by someone behind a big hit, I think it was from Carlos [Sainz] and I was just trying not to hit the cars that spun round and I fell back I think five or six places.
“I’m really, really happy to have a positive race. I’m really grateful that the race was so good.
“I don’t know how it was as a spectacle to watch, there was so much overtaking. It was like Baku, but better.
“I really wasn’t expecting the track to be so great. But, the more and more laps we did over the last few days, I just really, really loved racing and lots of great overtaking opportunities.
“I think for all those that were so negative about the weekend saying ‘it’s all about show, blah blah, blah’, I think Vegas proved them wrong.”
Max Verstappen: Viva Las Vegas!
In a light-hearted moment, Verstappen took to the team radio to sing ‘Viva Las Vegas’ as Red Bull team boss Christian Horner played the song following the driver’s victory in the race.
In the wake of the Grand Prix, Verstappen, exuding happiness, was questioned about his sentiments toward Las Vegas. The inquiry aimed to discern if his perspective on the city had shifted after the positive outcome of the race or if he still maintained his previous stance.
“I always expected it to be a good race today,” he said.
“It was just – like I said before – four long straights, low-speed corners, you don’t lose a lot of downforce. So that has never been my issue. But yeah, today was fun.
“That’s the only thing I want to say about it; I think today was fun. I hope everyone enjoyed it. I think the DRS effect was strong but good.
“I mean it made for fun racing out there. Christian put me on the spot so I cannot leave them hanging so I have to sing. But I definitely need some lessons, so I need to go to Jerry and book an appointment I guess.”
