Mercedes Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton is back on top of the podium.
On Sunday, the 39-year-old Briton won his home race, the British Grand Prix, at Silverstone, snapping a 945-day drought, via The Athletic's Madeline Coleman. It marks his first victory since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
The moment of victory!
— Formula 1 (@F1) July 7, 2024
Incredible scenes at Silverstone #F1 #BritishGP @LewisHamilton pic.twitter.com/Qn0peOI1Z0
Clearly, it was an emotional victory for Hamilton. He was seen hugging his father after he hopped out of his car. In a post-race interview, he told Sky Sports, "I can't stop crying."
The emotions flood out #F1 #BritishGP @LewisHamilton pic.twitter.com/o43IvKELjQ
— Formula 1 (@F1) July 7, 2024
Hamilton is leaving the Silver Arrows for Ferrari in 2025. Per CNN's Issy Ronald, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff told Sky Sports winning one more British Grand Prix with the seven-time world champion seems like a "fairytale."
Hamilton's teammate, George Russell, seemed poised to earn his second straight victory after clinching the pole on Saturday. However, Hamilton passed him on Lap 18, and they ran wide on the ensuing lap.
Things would get worse for Russell, who was forced to retire on Lap 34 due to a potential water system issue in his car. Hamilton moved into first after McLaren's Lando Norris botched a pit stop. Red Bull's Max Verstappen made a late surge, but Hamilton maintained the lead for the rest of the race.
Lewis Hamilton has broken Michael Schumachers record for the most wins at a single circuit (9) pic.twitter.com/TRaMnr4Vso
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) July 7, 2024
The hard-fought victory should remind fans that Hamilton is still one of the greatest drivers of all time despite his recent struggles.
According to ESPN F1's X account, he has won nine races at Silverstone, breaking Michael Schumacher's record for most victories at a single circuit. He's also the first driver to win in F1 after competing in 300 races.
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