Mercedes explain Hamilton’s Melbourne frustration

Mercedes have endorsed Lewis Hamilton’s assertion that his “difficult position” radio message during the Australian Grand Prix was about engine cooling.

Towards the end of the race in Melbourne, on his way to finishing fourth, the seven-time former World Champion said “you guys put me in a really difficult position”.

It was not immediately clear to what Hamilton was referring, although it came at a time when he was running behind his team-mate George Russell who ended up on the podium in third.

In his media interviews afterwards, Hamilton insisted his message had been about having to manage his engine temperatures, saying: “I couldn’t fight for third because the engine was overheating. So I had to back off, just had to sit behind.”

Leclerc: New Ferrari is a 'beast'

Glock warns Vettel may ‘lose patience’ with AM

Ferrari Imola upgrade to address porpoising

Time To Take Ferrari Seriously - Australian GP Conclusions

Ocon blames set-up after trailing Alonso in qualy

Aston Martin crashes proving costly

Sainz at risk of 'supporting role' for Leclerc

Is Stroll out of his depth with Aston Martin F1 team

Vettel Adds to Aston Martin's Problems - Australian GP Conclusions

Winning the title hasn’t brought ‘calmness’ to Max

Red Bull Need To Come Back, Fast - Australian GP Conclusions

During their post-race debrief, Mercedes have explained the situation Hamilton was having to nurse to ensure his power unit did not overheat.

Us right now… pic.twitter.com/eWMP7aTu2K

— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) April 12, 2022

“That was all about engine cooling and keeping the PU cool during the course of the race,” said James Vowles, Mercedes’ motorsport strategy director.

“We push everything to the limit, as you would imagine, and