Lewis Hamilton has conceded that heavy partying after his third title win mixed with a lack of sleep due to other commitments, was the likely cause of his Monaco car crash.
The Briton admitted on Instagram that he had been involved in a minor accident whilst driving his £1.5 million ($2.2m) Pagani Zonda on Monday night, blaming a fever and lack of sleep as he tried to balance training, partying and organising his mum’s 60th surprise birthday party.
It took its toll on the 30-year-old who revealed his doctor advised him to remain at home for another day before flying to Brazil in order to recover.
“It was a result of heavy partying and not much rest for a week and a half,” he told reporters in Brazil. “I don’t feel as bad as I look, but I honestly feel a lot better.
“I am a bit run down. I have been non-stop and trying to fit training in at the same time and not getting a lot of sleep.
‘The last two days I have slept pretty much all day. I couldn’t believe how much I slept.
“I am generally a really energetic person, but that week after Mexico and the party we drank a lot and I was really feeling it.”
A statement from Monaco’s Palais de Justice has since confirmed that alcohol wasn’t a factor in the accident itself, whilst revealing more details: “His foot slipped on the brake and clutch pedals and his vehicle struck three parked cars.
“He was tested for alcohol but the result was negative.”
Meanwhile Hamilton insists his participation in the Brazilian Grand Prix was never in doubt, despite him having to cancel a sponsor event which had been scheduled for Wednesday.
“I never considered not coming,” he added. “I have never ever not considered coming to a race throughout my whole life. In 22 years, I have never not been at a race.”
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