Overview

• George Russell dismissed Hamilton’s Hungary self-criticism as “talking nonsense,” praising him as the greatest driver and citing his China sprint win.
• Lewis Hamilton said at Zandvoort that he returned from the summer break with a new outlook and wants to rediscover joy after a pressured first half.
• He rejected suggestions of age or fitness issues, saying he feels strong even if recovery takes longer than it once did.
• Hamilton is sixth in the standings, 42 points behind Charles Leclerc, who has five podiums, while Hamilton is still without a Grand Prix podium.
• Russell noted many drivers are already looking toward the 2026 rules reset, and Leclerc said Ferrari must out-develop rivals to avoid slipping back.