By Elishya Perera
ISTANBUL, Turkey (CWBN)_ Lewis Hamilton claimed victory at the Turkish Grand Prix at Istanbul Park yesterday (Nov 15). In doing so, the Englishman equalled Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world titles.
Hamilton, who started sixth, maintained his sure touch as other cars slithered on the treacherous surface amidst rainfall. The Mercedes driver crossed the finishing line for his 94th Grand Prix win, followed by Racing Point’s Sergio Perez who finished in second, while Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel was third.
“For all the kids out there who dream the impossible, you can do it too — I believe in you guys,” Hamilton said on his radio after securing his fourth successive title.
Following his historical victory, Hamilton received congratulatory messages from his fellow drivers, sports stars from around the world and the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
American race car driver Bubba Wallace took it to Instagram to convey his well-wishes with the caption “Simply amazing my brother”.
“An impressive victory — well done @LewisHamilton! You have made us all so proud” PM Johnson tweeted, while Former Manchester United and England footballer Rio Ferdinand tweeted that Hamilton was the “greatest sportsman this country has ever produced — no doubts.”
Meanwhile, Mercedes Chief, Toto Wolff, conceded that following his achievement, Mercedes’ next contract with Lewis Hamilton had “got really more expensive”, as Hamilton’s contract with the constructor expires at the end of this year.
Hamilton, for whom winning has become commonplace, was quite emotional after his record-breaking victory. The 35-year-old was in tears, with his head in his hands, as he sat in his car after the race. Shortly afterwards, he climbed from the cockpit embraced his team and, with tears in his eyes, said he was “lost for words.”
“I have to start with saying such a huge thank you to all the guys that are here, and all the guys that are back at the factory … I wouldn’t be able to do this if I didn’t join this team and the journey we’ve been on has been monumental,” he said.
“I want to say a big thanks to team LH for sticking with me all these years, and to my family. We dreamed of this when I was young and this is way, way beyond our dreams.”
Edited By Chathushka Perera
