Lewis Hamilton, Piers Morgan and Jeremy Clarkson

Piers (l) and Jeremy shared their thoughts on the result (Picture: Getty; PA Photos; AP)

Lewis Hamilton’s defeat at the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has left the nation devastated, including the likes of Piers Morgan and Gary Lineker. 


Hamilton, 36, was poised to eclipse Michael Schumacher’s record with an eighth world title, but suffered a crushing defeat against Max Verstappen, who won for the first time. 


It was a narrow miss for the F1 star, who led the majority of the race and appeared to be coasting to victory just as the safety car was brought out following a crash in the final few laps. 


Reacting to Hamilton’s shocking loss, Piers simply tweeted: ‘OMG.’


After finding a few more words, the former Good Morning Britain presenter then added: ‘I don’t know what I’ve just watched but it can’t be right. Hamilton’s been robbed, surely? #F1.’ 


Piers then applauded Hamilton’s classy post-race interview, and said: ‘Incredibly gracious reaction by ⁦@LewisHamilton⁩ – he’s such a class act on & off the track, and never gets the full respect he deserves for being one of Britain’s greatest ever sportsmen.’ 






Extending his congratulations to Verstappen, he added: ‘As for this guy, he’s an absolute nut-job but what a brilliant racing driver. 


‘Whatever your thoughts on what happened, that final lap manoeuvre was just sensational. Congrats @Max33Verstappen – a worthy champion in the greatest ever F1 season.’ 


The Grand Tour presenter Jeremy Clarkson concurred: ‘Very very dignified from @LewisHamilton.’ 




Lewis Hamilton at Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Hamilton was praised for his dignified post-race interview (Picture: Rex Features)

Match of the Day host Gary Lineker shared Piers’ shocked sentiments and tweeted at the result: ‘What a joke. That stinks.’ 


He continued: ‘Wonderfully generous and dignified reaction from @LewisHamilton. He really is very special,  on the track, and off it. Class act to the end.


‘Congratulations to @Max33Verstappen on his first world championship. He’s not to blame for the decisions. He’s an absolutely superb driver and gave us the most incredible season.’ 


Hamilton attracted an audience of A-list guests in Abu Dhabi, including rapper Stormzy who had a hilariously chaotic interview with Sky Sports presenter Martin Brundle before the event kicked off.