Let's look at it differently, from a Constructor's point of view:
Hamilton was leading but Bottas was faster, on fresh rubber, and so was Raikkonen, on fresh rubber. Had Bottas overtaken Hamilton then Hamilton would have under direct pressure from Kimi, and most likely would have lost. Keeping Bottas in-between Hamilton and Raikkonen ensured 1st and 2nd positions for Mercedes, and that was better than 1st and 3rd.
Think Constructor's Championship and ToTo's decision makes sense. Think Driver's Championship and it doesn't. But it is the Constructor's Championship that earns the BIG $$$s. As said before I don't believe the Team is so bothered who wins but a 1, 2, does matter, lots!
I still think Hamilton should have had 10-seconds added for leaving the pit-entry lane, across the grass, and onto the race track. Had Grosjean done similar then I'm sure he'd have had a penalty and a 5-position grid place drop in Budapest.
For some reason Hamilton doesn't get penalties afforded, just a wee reprimand.
Hamilton was leading but Bottas was faster, on fresh rubber, and so was Raikkonen, on fresh rubber. Had Bottas overtaken Hamilton then Hamilton would have under direct pressure from Kimi, and most likely would have lost. Keeping Bottas in-between Hamilton and Raikkonen ensured 1st and 2nd positions for Mercedes, and that was better than 1st and 3rd.
Think Constructor's Championship and ToTo's decision makes sense. Think Driver's Championship and it doesn't. But it is the Constructor's Championship that earns the BIG $$$s. As said before I don't believe the Team is so bothered who wins but a 1, 2, does matter, lots!
I still think Hamilton should have had 10-seconds added for leaving the pit-entry lane, across the grass, and onto the race track. Had Grosjean done similar then I'm sure he'd have had a penalty and a 5-position grid place drop in Budapest.
For some reason Hamilton doesn't get penalties afforded, just a wee reprimand.