Mercedes: Lauda is unhappy with Hamilton’s behavior

After snatching the controversial pole position right under Lewis Hamilton’s nose, Nico Rosberg won the Monaco Grand Prix. This victory, which was not to the Englishman’s liking, was solidified on a podium where he barely congratulated his German teammate on his win.

This behavior is not to the liking of the honorary president of Mercedes AMG F1. Former driver Niki Lauda explains to *Autosport*: « It’s normal that Lewis is not happy to finish second, but in the end, he has to accept that another guy is faster than him. It’s very simple in racing. What I didn’t like, I must say, and I will tell him on Monday, is that when you’re up there [on the podium] and you don’t say hello to your teammate, which Nico has always done, it’s not good. »

Indeed, he is mainly thinking about the image projected worldwide and the potential repercussions on the German manufacturer. He states: « It’s not because I am well-bred, but it’s for the Mercedes brand. It’s something that is starting to be concerning, but it’s easy to correct. »

He explains his role with the drivers and how he plans to fill the gaps: « I spoke with the drivers before the race and it’s not over yet. I understand all the comments and I still have to wait two or three days, but before Canada it will be resolved. I will talk to them as I always do. They always call me when they have problems, so I think it will solve itself. »

He remembers being in that same situation when he was racing for McLaren with a famous teammate in 1984-1985: « It’s normal. I had the same thing with Prost. I hated the guy, but at least I would say good morning to him. There are certain limits and it’s those limits that I can reestablish because I speak their language, the language of the drivers, and they understand me, they appreciate me, and there’s no problem. »