Quote Originally Posted by Nitrodaze View Post
I just watched the post race interview of the drivers. One of the questions asked by the journalists was about tyre strategy. Hamilton was asked if Mercedes planned to split their tyre strategy before the race, and Hamilton and Bottas answered that the original plan was for a two stop strategy using Medium Medium Hard tyres. This was considered the fastest strategy from the many simulations. Hamilton hinted that he took it upon himself to go for a one stop strategy to counter Bottas who had the first choice on stops etc.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xu4wbftiWrY

I think the team did not have much to do with how the race turned out in the end. But it was solid strategy thinking from Hamilton that made all the difference in how the race was won by him.
I totally acknowledge this and he should get the win because of it.

However if the intent of the team is to allow the drivers decide the title on the track, he's gone against the grain. It could be the case that defying calls to pit may backfire later on if Bottas and his engineer is onto it. There may be further stipulations of conduct during the following races.

It could be the case now that qualifying 2nd in the MB will become advantageous?