Hamilton explains 'dangerous' Mercedes team radio message

Lewis Hamilton has revealed he was 'so close to having a big shunt' in treacherous conditions at the Monaco Grand Prix.

The Mercedes driver made one spot from fifth to fourth in the 78-lap race by virtue of smart team strategy as a rain shower on lap 52 threw tactics up in the air.

Heavy rain hit the circuit between Casino Square and Portier whilst the rest of the circuit was only dampened by lighter precipitation, leading to a stern challenge for the drivers.

Incidents came at the end of the first sector even after the change to Intermediate tyres had been made by the majority of the field, with Hamilton suggesting the conditions were dangerous.

Explaining his radio message, the seven-time F1 World Champion told media, including RacingNews365.com: "It felt very twitchy and the tyres weren't working so it was like I was on ice.

"After some time, the tyres started to work and it was absolutely fine. But I was so close to going off and crashing, having a big shunt.

"It was very crazy.

"From my side, I couldn't get temperature into the Intermediate tyres so I was tip-toeing.

"Our crossover was good, I lost ground when I had to stop. It was just a bit of a disadvantage which made it a little tricky but no mistakes and I kept it on track."

Hamilton hails Mercedes effort

Hamilton was followed home by Mercedes teammate George Russell, who rose from eighth on the grid despite picking up a five-second time penalty during the rain chaos.

The result saw the Silver Arrows gain ground on Aston Martin in the Constructors' Standings, whilst both Ferraris came behind the Mercedes duo.

"Overall, as a team, it was a step forward, and to get fourth and fifth in such a tricky race is a pretty great result," hailed Hamilton.

"The team did a really solid job with strategy and to leapfrog Ferrari was awesome."