Lewis Hamilton says German Grand Prix puncture was 'cruel luck'

The McLaren driver was one of the victims of the debris on track at the start of the race following a collision involving Ferrari's Felipe Massa.

Hamilton's right rear tyre was punctured, the Briton dropping to the bottom of the field. He later retired from the race.

The Briton, competing in his 100th grand prix, was left lamenting his bad luck.

"My second-lap puncture was incredibly unfortunate: there was debris scattered across the full width of the track and I didn't have any option other than to drive straight through it," said Hamilton.

"What's more frustrating is that, at the time, I was the eighth car through - so to be the one to get the puncture is just cruel luck.

"It was immediately clear that my car didn't feel the same after the puncture. However, after a few laps, I was able to adapt my driving style, and the car had good pace during the middle stint. However, with the damage to the rear, I think we were lucky to get that far, to be honest."

Hamilton was nonetheless encouraged by McLaren's pace following the introduction of new upgrades.

"At least I was able to have some fun out on track - my pace was good enough to be able to match the leaders during the middle stint. And that's encouraging for me, because we know our car's been genuinely quick this weekend.

"We'll put that pace in our pockets and take it to Hungary next weekend. I'm back in the car in five days' time - and that's the best possible news for me after a day like today."