THE TEAM BEHIND THE MAN — Key figures in background

ANGELA CULLEN, PHYSIO

New Zealander Cullen has been ever-present at races since 2016, holding Hamilton’s umbrella or fetching the lint roller to wipe fluff off his shirt. She is part of Hintsa Performance, founded by Hamilton’s late mentor and doctor Aki Hintsa. Cullen is a positive character in the Mercedes motorhome.

MARC HYNES, ADVISOR

Working quietly on his computer during grands prix, Hines, 40, deals with admin on Hamilton’s management team. A British F3 series winner with the Manor team that nurtured his now boss, Hines made Hamilton godfather to his son.

TOTO WOLFF, TEAM PRINCIPAL

The Austrian has given Hamilton space to be his own man, often standing back in wonder at what his driver has achieved. With Nico Rosberg having departed in 2016, there is no longer a disruptive rivalry at the heart of the team.

PETER BONNINGTON, RACE ENGINEER

No matter the degree of elation or turmoil, the voice of Bonnington (right) burbles over the radio with imperturbable calm. He has to absorb occasional irritation from Hamilton in the middle of races but there is mutual respect between them.