FORMULA 1 Brawn delivers Schu message to Lewis

MICHAEL SCHUMACHER’S family sent a message of congratulations to Lewis Hamilton after he equalled the German’s record of 68 pole positions.

Hamilton’s former Mercedes boss Ross Brawn (below), a close friend of stricken Schumacher, went onto the Spa track immediately after qualifying for today’s Belgian Grand Prix. Brawn said: “I am here to deliver a special message from the Schumacher family who want to congratulate you on equalling Schumacher’s record. He always said records are there to be beaten and they want to say a special thanks.”

An emotional Hamilton said: “To hear that message Ross just gave, a big thank you. I pray for Michael and his family all the time.”

Sebastian Vettel, who has signed a three-year deal to stay with Ferrari, will be alongside Hamilton on the front row of the grid. Hamilton’s team-mate Valtteri Bottas was third.