Hamilton frustrated after difficult Hungarian Grand Prix
Leclerc finished fourth after leading for much of the race.
Hamilton's former Mercedes boss Toto Wolff also spoke out strongly in the 40-year-old Briton's defence, calling his Saturday comments "Lewis wearing his heart on his sleeve".
"It was very raw. It was out of himself and we had it in the past when he felt he underperformed his own expectations," said the Austrian.
"He's been that emotional and emotionally transparent since he was a young boy, a young adult. He's got to beat himself up. He's the GOAT (greatest of all time) and will always be the GOAT and nobody's going to take that away."
Wolff said he was sure Hamilton had unfinished business in Formula One, after losing controversially in 2021 what would have been a record eighth title, and had what it takes.
"He shouldn't go anywhere next year," said the Mercedes boss. "Brand new cars, completely different to drive, new power units I hope he stays on for many more years and certainly next year is going to be important."
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