Hamilton raising profile of British Formula 1 once more
Published:
Matt Haynes | October 26, 2015
- Lewis Hamilton wins consecutive Formula 1 titles with victory in US
- The Brit equals Sir Jackie Stewart’s record of three World Championships
- Odds drop to 9/2 for him to win Sports Personality
Hamilton hits heady heights
Not even the conditions could dampen Lewis Hamilton’s mood. Moments earlier he had crossed the chequered flag of the USA Grand Prix in first place, driving into the record books at mach three.
A third Formula 1 title and consecutive crown has put him among his nation’s sporting elite. Equalling Sir Jackie Stewart’s overall record, Hamilton also went one better, becoming the first Brit to secure back-to-back Championships.
Prior to the race, it was an almost eerie atmosphere. Very literally, a great calm before the storm that followed, while Hurricane Patricia swept ever closer. Exploding out of the blocks, Hamilton like the anticipated weather, was gale-force in his approach.
Super start
As Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg lurched wide, Hamilton took full advantage. Nearly two hours later (1:50:52.703 to be precise) he was spinning in style, delighting the crowds with donuts, Daft Punk’s ‘One More Time’ telling in tribute, reverberating from the sound system.
Describing the occasion over the team radio as “the greatest moment of my life” going level with his hero Ayrton Senna on world titles wins, Hamilton hit highs unparalleled as he leaped from his car clearly untainted by bullishness issuing from Rosberg.
Face like thunder in the eye of the storm, the German’s grievance garnished an already eventful occasion. Upset by the manner in which Hamilton harried his way to the front at the beginning, this was destined for dissension.
Sports Personality to follow?
Attention has also turned to anticipated achievements. Michael Schumacher holds the record with seven world championships. Hamilton is available at 33/1 to claim eight or more and will be confident of doing so.
Now the undisputed face of Formula 1 he can motivate the upward surge of popularity at grassroots level. An icon to idolize. While a knighthood might be some way off there is no doubt his noble, yet motorised steed will see him honoured in the right way.
Another British legend joined him on the podium making the presentation more ceremonial swank rather than riotous rabble. Sir Elton John, on tour in America had made a special visit and it could well be the boost Hamilton needs to not ‘let the sun go down’ on him, with more records still to chase.
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