Isack Hadjar has revealed that he received immediate support from the father of Lewis Hamilton, Anthony, following an "embarrassing" crash on the Australian Grand Prix formation lap.
The Racing Bulls rookie driver crashed at Turn 2 on his F1 debut during the initial stages of the formation lap after being caught out by wet weather.
It resulted in an aborted start, whilst Hadjar appeared to be in tears once he returned to the paddock. His helmet remained on, with him not yet to make his first race start.
"Just embarrassed and sorry for the team," a dejected Hadjar told select media including RacingNews365.
It was an unusual incident so early into the formation lap, with Hadjar having conceded that he was to blame for the freak formation lap crash.
"I mean, I overdid it, over-slipped the rears, once I lost the car I tried to save it, bit I was just a passenger. Just not so fast, I didn't expect it."
Once Hadjar had returned to the paddock, TV cameras quickly cut to Anthony Hamilton offering the young driver support.
One of Hadjar's racing heroes is Lewis, making support from the seven-time world champion's father incredibly special for the 20-year-old.
"It means a lot knowing that he knew where I was, how bad I felt, to go and see me in the worst moment ever," said Hadjar. "I think it's nice just from him. I really appreciate that.
When asked what Hamilton told him, Hadjar replied: "Yeah, just keep my head high and improve myself. I did well yesterday, nice stuff"
Hadjar was also visited by F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali, opening the drivers' eyes to the remarkable support in the paddock.
"Stefano came into my driver's room and said similar things [to Hamilton]," revealed Hadjar. "It's nice to feel the support from them. It's nice just nice."
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