Lewis Hamilton made an emotional debut after claiming his first Formula 1 victory since the 2021 season in Sunday’s dramatic and rain-filled British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
Hamilton kept close to Mercedes teammate George Russell in the early stages of the race before showers changed the situation, as the drivers switched from slick tires to intermediate tires and then back to slick tires. A decisive appeal to return to the slick track a lap earlier than McLaren’s Lando Norris, who took the lead in the shower, gave Hamilton a lead he would not relinquish – with the crowd stocking Enthusiastically dance for him every step of the way.
Hamilton’s victory not only marked his first victory since his victory in Saudi Arabia two and a half seasons ago, but also a record ninth victory at a Grand Prix venue. When asked about his feelings after the race, Hamilton said: “I can’t stop crying! Since 2021, every day I wake up, try to fight, train, focus on the task and work my hardest possible with this great team.
“This is my last race in British Formula 1 with this team [before moving to Ferrari], so I really want to win for them, because I love them, I appreciate them very much them, all the hard work they have put in over the years. “I am forever grateful to everyone in the team, everyone at Mercedes, all our partners and all our wonderful fans… I can see you round every lap as I ran through, and there’s no better feeling than to finish in the top spot here.”
When told by Hamilton he had “kept a brave face” amid his victory drought, the seven-time world champion went further in his journey between his 103rd and 104th victories. “I think it’s very difficult for anyone,” he commented. “I think what matters is how you keep getting up, and you have to keep digging deep even when you feel like you’re at rock bottom. “There have definitely been days from 2021 until now where I felt like I wasn’t good enough, or didn’t know if I could get back to where I am today, but the important thing is that I have great people around, continue to support me.
“Every time I come in and see my team giving their best, I’m really motivated to follow suit. “Also, my fans, when I see them around the world, they support me so much. A big thank you to everyone at the factory, everyone here, I love you guys.” While Hamilton won, teammate Russell – who excelled in pole position on Saturday – was unable to finish after being called back to the stop because of a suspected water system problem.
