Hammy salute
LEW DEDICATES POLE TO BOSEMAN
LEWIS HAMILTON stormed to another sensational hat-trick of qualifying times – and dedicated the victory to tragic Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman.
After securing pole for today’s Belgian Grand Prix he paid tribute to the actor by standing on the podium with his arms crossed, a salute from the Marvel movie.
“That one was for Chadwick,” said Hamilton, in reference to the Hollywood star who has died from cancer, aged 43.
“It is a really important pole, I woke up to the saddest news of Chadwick passing away. I wanted to drive to perfection for what he has done for our people.”
The reigning champ – seeking a seventh crown – produced a magical display around the hazardous 4.352-mile circuit ahead of round seven of the title chase that is turning into a Mercedes monopoly.
Dutch team-mate Valtteri Bottas, half a second behind Hammy, ensured it was the seventh Mercedes one-two.
Hamilton, chasing his 99th Grand Prix victory, said: “I love this place. It is my very, very favourite track.”
Max Verstappen claimed a hard-earned third place in qualifying and Hamilton is not taking victory for granted.
“It could be very close between us and Red Bull,” he said.
“They have taken a big step forward. Max is showing some great form. He’s a great competitor and it is sure to be an exciting clash.”
Verstappen, running second in the title chase with 95 points to Hammy’s 132, added: “I can’t say how much I am looking forward to the race.
“There are so many changes and challenges around the entire track from start to finish, it is a real mega test.
“I am half a second off Lewis but I am happy with that. We are second in the championship right now, splitting the Mercedes, so we need to keep our momentum going.
“Mercedes are really very strong so we will have our work cut out to the very last race of the season.”
Renault’s Daniel Ricciardo finished fourth, ahead of the second Red Bull of Alexander Albon. But it was Mercedes – masters of the previous six
GPs – which dominated to hint of more glory in today’s 44-lap showcase.