Anthony Hamilton was quick to console Isack Hadjar after his unfortunate mishap (Image: SKY SPORTS)
‘s father Anthony has lifted the lid on what he told after his unfortunate crash at the . The young Frenchman was preparing to make his F1 debut in Melbourne but did not make it to the grid after spinning out on the formation lap.
A heavy rain shower preceded the start of the race, leading to slippery track conditions. Hadjar was caught out at the very first corner during the formation lap, losing rear traction and sliding into the wall. His rear wing snapped against the barrier upon impact which meant he was unable to continue. The incident also caused the start of the race to be delayed by around 10 minutes.
Hadjar was caught out by a loss of traction at Turn One and crashed his car (Image: GETTY)
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
After jumping out of the car, Hadjar was visibly distraught and began to cry in full view of the TV cameras around the circuit. Live pictures showed the 20-year-old wiping his eyes under his visor as he made his way back to the hospitality area.
Upon his arrival in the paddock, he was immediately consoled by the elder Hamilton in a heartwarming display of sportsmanship. He was seen putting his arm around Hadjar and speaking to him before giving him a hug and parting ways.
Revealing what he told the Racing Bulls driver, Hamilton told Canal+: “I just felt terrible for him, so I thought: ‘You know what, I just need to go and tell this kid to keep your head high, walk tall, you’re going to come back’.
Don’t miss… [GOSSIP] [NEWS] [REPORT]
“I think he’s a phenomenal driver, I really do. There’s more to come from Isack than we probably have seen this weekend.”
Hamilton said he felt compelled to offer a crumb of comfort to Hadjar, being fully aware of the sacrifices he would have needed to make to reach the F1 grid.
“As soon as I saw what happened to Isack, my heart fell and I just felt for him,” added Hamilton. “It was just so sad to see, because I know how hard it is when these kids are eight years of age and they dream of becoming a Formula One driver.
“There’s a lot of pressure all of the way up and you’re sitting on the grid for your first race and it doesn’t happen. That’s got to be the worst feeling in the world and I just felt for him. I just wanted to give him a hug. I felt for him like a father.”