The China Mail - Hamilton laments 'terrible' set-up after going from sprint win to sixth

The seven-time world champion said he made "terrible" set-up changes after Saturday's 19-lap dash to the chequered flag at the Shanghai International Circuit.

As a result he was unable to match the pace of his nearest rivals, or even his teammate Charles Leclerc, over the full 56-lap main race distance.

Hamilton took a stunning pole in Friday's sprint qualifying before going on to seal his maiden victory for the Scuderia, easily holding off McLaren's Oscar Piastri.

But on Sunday it was a different story as Piastri sped off into the distance to win the grand prix at a canter.

"Balance-wise, from the sprint race we made these changes and the car was terrible after that," Hamilton told reporters.

"So I really struggled from then on.

"I think it's good learnings and hopefully won't do that again as I continue to learn this car."

Hamilton also made contact with Leclerc on the opening lap.

"Honestly it's not Lewis's fault at all," Leclerc told Sky Sports F1 after he lost part of his front wing in the incident between the teammates.

Despite the damage Leclerc was so much quicker than Hamilton in the second stint that the team ordered the Englishman to swap positions.

Leclerc was passed late on by Max Verstappen but held no hard feelings against his new teammate.

"At the end it's a racing incident," said Leclerc.

"It's a shame that it happens between the two red cars but obviously there were no bad intentions from either of us."

S.Wilson--ThChM