‘Magical moment’ as Lewis Hamilton hits 100 wins
SOCHI, Russia: Lewis Hamilton described becoming the first driver to win 100 Formula One races as ‘magical’ on Sunday while his Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff hailed the landmark as ‘mind-blowing’.
The 36-year-old Briton reached his century by winning the rain-lashed Russian Grand Prix at Sochi. Seven-time world champion Hamilton also moved back to the top of the drivers standings by two points from Max Verstappen, who finished second in a Red Bull.
“It’s a magical moment. I could only ever have dreamed of still being here and having this opportunity to win these races and get to drive against such phenomenal talent this late in my career,” said Hamilton.
“To continue to build with Mercedes, of which I’m so proud of everything we’ve done, not only on track but also off and yeah, this is just a special moment for everyone that has been a part of it. I’ve had the most incredible team.”
Hamilton won his first F1 race in Canada in 2007 as a 22year-old and behind the wheel of a McLaren. He was also the sport’s first black race winner.
His 99th victory came on home ground at Silverstone in July this year but it was achieved in controversial circumstances.
On the opening lap, Hamilton, determined not to let Verstappen escape, charged through on the inside. The Dutchman shut the door, hit Hamilton and careened out of the race.
Hamilton served a 10-second penalty, then hunted down Charles Leclerc to grab an eighth home victory.
“There were moments where you didn’t even know if it was going to happen,” added Hamilton on the long wait to convert 99 into 100.
Wolff described Hamilton’s achievement as ‘mind-blowing’.
“Those final few laps were so intense, but we managed to make the right calls and lead the field across the finish line,” he said.