Lewis Hamilton missed the mandatory post‑race press conference at Marina Bay after the seven‑time champion was granted a medical exemption following the world‑record heat during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix.
Immediate Medical Intervention and Media Exemption
After exiting the SF‑26 cockpit on the final lap, Hamilton was promptly examined by the FIA medical team. The Ferrari garage confirmed that the driver felt “unwell” and was subsequently authorized by the governing body to omit all standard media duties for the day.
Strategic Blunder Compounded the Heat‑Induced Toll
Progressing from a 62‑lap showdown, Hamilton’s failure to heed a pit‑wall cue during the late virtual safety car period forced him onto older, degraded tyres. The loss of grip rendered him unable to hold his running position, leading to a triple‑pilot assault from Kimi Antonelli, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Once comfortably situated on the podium, Hamilton’s position slipped dramatically, and he crossed the finish line in a disappointing sixth place.
Repeated Singapore Vulnerability for Red‑Band Drivers
History shows that Singapore’s humidity can take its toll on top‑tier racing talent. Earlier in the 2024 campaign, both Hamilton and his former Mercedes teammate George Russell reported severe discomfort post‑race under the same extreme conditions.
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