The decisive scene
Laps 42-44: Ferrari delayed Hamilton's release
Hamilton caught Leclerc by Lap 43 with more pace. Leclerc did not follow Ferrari's first instruction to pit, stopped one lap later, and only then released Hamilton into clear air.
Featured decision read: BAD
Ferrari's call
Hamilton caught Leclerc by Lap 43 with more pace. Leclerc did not follow Ferrari's first instruction to pit, stopped one lap later, and only then released Hamilton into clear air.
Why the answer stays bounded
Leclerc was also racing Russell and Ferrari still had to protect both tyre plans, so releasing Hamilton did not guarantee a podium.