Horner sympathises with Hamilton

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner says it is “understandable” why Lewis Hamilton refused to listen to team orders in Hungary…

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner says it is “understandable” why Lewis Hamilton refused to listen to team orders in Hungary.

Tension at Mercedes is threatening to boil over after Hamilton decided not to move aside to allow his team-mate Nico Rosberg through stating that he was “very, very shocked” when told to do so and later adding that “it was just a case of not giving a single point away”.

With Hamilton finishing third and Rosberg fourth, it means the German’s lead in the Championship was reduced to 11 points and Horner feels the former had every reason not to allow his team-mate through.

“Inevitably it is very difficult, because you have the objective of the team and the objectives of the drivers,” Horner is quoted as saying by Autosport.

“The interesting thing at Mercedes this year is that because they have such an advantage they have let their drivers race, and they are not under threat in the Constructors’ Championship.

“You can understand Lewis. He is fighting Nico and if he lets him run his fastest strategy, it puts himself under pressure.

“So it is entirely understandable from Lewis’ point of view to say ‘not today thanks’.”