What had been an improved race weekend for Lewis Hamilton ended on a disappointing note, as he put his Ferrari in the wall at the Dutch Grand Prix.

However, the concerningly negative aura which had enveloped Hamilton – persisting even upon his arrival in the paddock at Zandvoort – evaporated during the course of the event. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur noted a “much more positive” vibe to his discussions with Hamilton after the race.

Lewis Hamilton ‘much more positive’ in Vasseur chat post-Dutch GP

Additional reporting by Thomas Maher

So downbeat was Hamilton in Hungary – the final round before the summer break – that speculation bubbled up about whether he would even return for Zandvoort. The seven-time World Champion did, and after a subdued entrance, he soon perked up.

Frid

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