Ex Mercedes driver offers take on Hamilton-Alonso Singapore flashpoint

The former Mercedes reserve driver, who appeared on a recent episode of the Chequered Flag podcast, backed the seven-time world champion for his decision to continue driving despite losing his brakes. Bird also explained that he would have crossed the line and waited for the stewards’ verdict if he were in Hamilton’s shoes.

“The question is, should you continue if you’ve got no brakes? Is that deemed dangerous? Did Lewis do the right thing?” Bird said.

During the Singapore Grand Prix, Hamilton lost his brakes in the final stretch of the race. The 40-year-old resorted to cutting corners and exceeding track limits due to the issue with his car.

Hamilton’s actions infuriated Fernando Alonso, who was closing in on him, with the Aston Martin driver going on a tirade over the team radio. Hamilton was subsequently handed a five-second penalty, which saw him drop from seventh to eighth place.

In the aftermath of the Singapore Grand Prix, Hamilton took to social media to aim a cheeky jibe at Alonso.

The 40-year-old posted a clip from the comedy series One Foot in the Grave, featuring the character repeatedly exclaiming, “I don’t believe it” – the same phrase Alonso shouted several times over his radio following Hamilton’s brake incident.

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