Lewis Hamilton praised for response to Charles Leclerc clash in Chinese Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton has been commended for his cool response to battling Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc during the Chinese Grand Prix.

The Formula One grid arrived at the Shanghai International Circuit for the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday morning, and it didn't disappoint.

After impressing during the opening race in Melbourne, 19-year-old Kimi Antonelli became only the second teenager to win a Grand Prix as he secured his maiden F1 race win ahead of teammate George Russell.

Behind the Mercedes pair was Hamilton, who will certainly look back on the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix fondly as it will go down as his first podium finish as a Ferrari driver.

But it wasn't an easy race for the Brit as he has spoken out about his battle with Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc that saw them collide as they fought for a place on the podium,

Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc made contact as they battled in Shanghai. (Image: Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images)

Following an impressive start for both Ferrari drivers, they found themselves sitting in third and fourth for the majority of the race, with their order often swapping.

On one occasion, the pair went wheel to wheel and even had a slight bit of contact as they traded places relentlessly.

Speaking about it post-race, Hamilton said: "I think there was one moment we did touch, but it was subtle.

"Just a kiss, so it's ok.

"This is what it's about, it's about tough racing."

It wasn't the first time that the Ferrari pair have clashed during the weekend, as they also battled for second place during the Chinese Grand Prix sprint race on Saturday, leading to Leclerc making a subtle comment at the expense of his teammate.

In light of Leclerc's comments, many fans were happy to see Hamilton acting respectfully when discussing his battle with the Monegasque driver during the main race.

Reacting to Hamilton's interview, one fan on X wrote: "Acknowledging the contact but framing it as part of intense racing shows he respects the sport and knows how to handle the heat on track."

Hamilton finished third in the Chinese Grand Prix. (Image: Anni Graf - Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images)

While another added: "Lewis Hamilton casually brushing off a literal mid-race collision as 'just a kiss' right after Charles had an absolute radio meltdown yesterday about people fighting him is genuinely hilarious.

"The contrast between a seven-time champ dropping a 'tough racing' masterclass and Leclerc crying about track position is peak comedy."