LEWIS HAMILTON has sent his best wishes to Max Verstappen after the Dutchman’s 180mph crash at the British GP sparked a war of words.
Red Bull star Verstappen went flying off the Silverstone track in the first lap after being clipped by Hamilton during a tense battle for space.
The 2021 season leader was immediately taken to hospital for checks before being given the all-clear.
And Verstappen later branded Hamilton ‘disrespectful’ after the Brit went on to win the race before celebrating with a Union Jack flag – while he was still at hospital.
However, Hamilton has now looked to calm things down by sending his best wishes to ‘incredible counterpart’ Verstappen.
But the Mercedes ace refused to apologise for his racing style and celebrations in front of home supporters.
Hamilton tweeted: “Today is a reminder of the dangers in this sport.
“I send my best wishes to Max who is an incredible competitor. I’m glad to hear he is ok.
“I will always race hard but always fairly. My team showed grit and perseverance out there.
“It’s a dream to win in front of my home crowd.”
Whether Hamilton’s message soothes Verstappen’s anger remains to be seen after the Dutchman tweeted earlier today.
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Verstappen wrote: “Glad I’m ok. Very disappointed with being taken out like this.
“The penalty given does not help us and doesn’t do justice to the dangerous move Lewis made on track.
“Watching the celebrations while still in hospital is disrespectful and unsportsmanlike behaviour but we move on.”
The Dutchman was released later on Sunday evening, writing on Instagram: “Cleared from the hospital after all the checks were ok. Thank you to everyone for all the nice messages and best wishes.”
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
