Lewis Hamilton didn’t mince words after crashing out of qualifying for the 2022 Austrian Grand Prix, saying he was incredibly disappointed in himself given a top three start was possible.
It all went wrong for the seven-time World Champion in Q3 when he spun off at Turn 7 and hit the barrier. Up to that point, Hamilton had looked to be in contention for top spot in the session. However, the crash means he’ll start Saturday’s sprint down in ninth position.
“I’m incredibly disappointed in myself ultimately and so sorry to the team,” Hamilton said after the session.
“Everyone worked so hard to put the car together – and I never like to bring it back damaged.
“I don’t have an answer right now to what happened. I lost the back end in Turn 7 and that was that.”
Encouraging signs for Mercedes prior to crash
Mercedes‘ disappointing day was made worse when George Russell also crashed after the session resumed following Hamilton’s red flag incident.
Although the 36-year-old was encouraged by the pace shown by both Mercedes cars, he isn’t sure how much progress he’ll be able to make in Saturday’s sprint.
“I was encouraged to see our performance, though,” said Hamilton.
“I think we were fighting for a top three start – and we weren’t expecting to be that close. That’s a huge positive for the team.
“I’m starting quite far back, and I’m not sure what’s possible from there. We have the Sprint tomorrow as well as the race on Sunday.
“Hopefully tomorrow I can make up for some lost time.”
