Lewis Hamilton in tears after...

Lewis Hamilton in tears after… Full Story

Lewis Hamilton experienced an emotional victory at the British Grand Prix, claiming his long-awaited 104th career win and setting a new record with his ninth victory at Silverstone. This triumph marked his first win since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and showcased a masterful performance in race and tyre management, allowing him to finish 1.465 seconds ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

The race was filled with drama as changing weather conditions and fluctuating track dynamics kept the drivers on edge. Hamilton’s victory was a significant moment, as he acknowledged over the team radio that he had been waiting a long time for this win, and he was moved to tears during his victory lap. His win also gave him his 150th podium finish with Mercedes, further cementing his legacy in Formula 1.

In his post-race comments, Hamilton reflected on the challenges he has faced since his last win in 2021. He spoke of his daily efforts to stay focused, train hard, and work closely with his Mercedes team, expressing deep gratitude for their support. This victory was especially meaningful as it marked his last British Grand Prix with Mercedes, with Hamilton set to leave the team for Ferrari at the end of the season. He expressed a strong desire to win for his team, acknowledging their dedication and hard work.

Max Verstappen, who had to settle for second place, conceded that he lacked the necessary pace to challenge for the win, particularly at the crucial stages of the race. Although he was able to overtake Lando Norris in the closing laps, Verstappen admitted that his performance was not strong enough to catch Hamilton.

Lando Norris, who finished third, had initially led the race but lost his advantage after a pit stop strategy did not go as planned. Despite this, he congratulated Hamilton on his victory, acknowledging the crucial decision-making that gave the Mercedes driver the upper hand. Norris described the race as challenging yet enjoyable, particularly given the difficult conditions that required significant risk-taking.

The race was a standout event for British fans, as three British drivers started at the front of the grid for the first time since 1962. George Russell, who began the race on pole, managed to maintain a lead in the early laps, with Hamilton close behind to fend off Verstappen. However, as the race progressed and rain began to fall, the dynamics shifted. Norris overtook Verstappen to regain third place, while McLaren’s Oscar Piastri passed Verstappen as well, taking advantage of the wet conditions.

Hamilton then seized the lead from Russell as both Mercedes cars struggled for grip in the rain. Norris soon overtook Hamilton, making it a McLaren 1-2, but the drying conditions began to favor Hamilton once more. Verstappen, who had been trailing in fifth, gradually closed the gap as the rain eased.

In the latter stages of the race, as the sun re-emerged, Hamilton, Verstappen, and Piastri all pitted together, with Hamilton emerging in the lead. Norris, who pitted a lap later, lost his lead to Hamilton. The seven-time champion then managed his final stint flawlessly, crossing the finish line to break a winless streak of 56 races.

As Hamilton exited his car, he was overcome with emotion, embracing his father as the home crowd cheered him on. This victory not only marked a significant personal achievement for Hamilton but also symbolized a poignant moment in his career as he prepares to leave the team with which he has achieved so much success.