Lewis Hamilton admitted to a surprise and a sad memory on Friday after arriving at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari ahead of this weekend's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

The surprise came, he said, on learning about Formula One's proposals for a drivers' salary cap to begin in 2023.

The sadness, he said, hit him as he recalled the death of his childhood racing hero Ayrton Senna when he passed the memorial statue at Tamburello corner, where &nbsp;the Brazilian &nbsp;died in 1994.

Five days on from his record-breaking 92nd victory at last Sunday's Portuguese Grand Prix, the six-time champion was back at work and facing a barrage of questions about the past, the present and the future.

He said talk of a salary cap was unexpected, but it had nothing to do with any delay in his negotiations for a new contract with Mercedes. The talks are officially on hold until the drivers' and constructors' championships are settled.

"From a drivers' point of view, it's a surprise," said Hamilton, when asked about the outcome of last Monday's F1 Commission meeting at which all ten teams supported the idea.

"We'd heard of the idea a while ago, but it's the first we've heard of it again this week – I think it's important that the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers' Association) work closely with F1 and get into discussions."

This weekend's race will be Hamilton's first as an F1 driver at Imola, which, he said, that evoked emotions as he inspected the track.&nbsp;

"Obviously, the history of 1994 is something we always remember," he said. "I went 'round today and it was a really special lap, just going round and seeing this historic track, passing the harsh reminder of where Ayrton crashed...

"It is very surreal still for me, when I go to places where you know that the greats of the past have raced like the tunnel at Monaco or Silverstone...

"Earlier on, I was in an area where many years, 26 years ago, Ayrton was here doing what he loved, as I am.

"So, in one way, that's heart-warming, to know that I was able to be here and do what he was doing 26 years ago, but otherwise it's just another race."

Hamilton said he recalled May 1, 1994, the day of Senna's death, vividly.

As a nine-year-old boy, he remembers he was helping his father Anthony repair his kart at a British junior race meeting.

"I don't know how he got the news, but someone told him that Ayrton had died," he said.

"And I remember I had to walk away from my dad because he would never let me cry in front of him so I had to go to a different place. It wasn't easy.

"I remember trying to channel that sadness into my driving and I think I won that weekend, but the following weeks were very tough."

This weekend, Hamilton and team-mate Valtteri Bottas aim to wrap up Mercedes record seventh consecutive constructors' championship as he heads towards his own seventh drivers' title.

Lewis Hamilton admitted to a surprise and a sad memory on Friday after arriving at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari ahead of this weekend's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton admitted to a surprise and a sad memory on Friday after arriving at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari ahead of this weekend's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. The surprise came, he said, on learning about Formula One's proposals for a drivers' salary cap to begin in 2023. The sadness, he said, hit him as he recalled the death of his childhood racing hero Ayrton Senna when he passed the memorial statue at Tamburello corner, where the Brazilian died in 1994. Five days on from his record-breaking 92nd victory at last Sunday's Portuguese Grand Prix, the six-time champion was back at work and facing a barrage of questions about the past, the present and the future. He said talk of a salary cap was unexpected, but it had nothing to do with any delay in his negotiations for a new contract with Mercedes. The talks are officially on hold until the drivers' and constructors' championships are settled. "From a drivers' point of view, it's a surprise," said Hamilton, when asked about the outcome of last Monday's F1 Commission meeting at which all ten teams supported the idea. "We'd heard of the idea a while ago, but it's the first we've heard of it again this week – I think it's important that the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers' Association) work closely with F1 and get into discussions." This weekend's race will be Hamilton's first as an F1 driver at Imola, which, he said, that evoked emotions as he inspected the track. "Obviously, the history of 1994 is something we always remember," he said. "I went 'round today and it was a really special lap, just going round and seeing this historic track, passing the harsh reminder of where Ayrton crashed... "It is very surreal still for me, when I go to places where you know that the greats of the past have raced like the tunnel at Monaco or Silverstone... "Earlier on, I was in an area where many years, 26 years ago, Ayrton was here doing what he loved, as I am. "So, in one way, that's heart-warming, to know that I was able to be here and do what he was doing 26 years ago, but otherwise it's just another race." Hamilton said he recalled May 1, 1994, the day of Senna's death, vividly. As a nine-year-old boy, he remembers he was helping his father Anthony repair his kart at a British junior race meeting. "I don't know how he got the news, but someone told him that Ayrton had died," he said. "And I remember I had to walk away from my dad because he would never let me cry in front of him so I had to go to a different place. It wasn't easy. "I remember trying to channel that sadness into my driving and I think I won that weekend, but the following weeks were very tough." This weekend, Hamilton and team-mate Valtteri Bottas aim to wrap up Mercedes record seventh consecutive constructors' championship as he heads towards his own seventh drivers' title.

Hamilton saddened ahead of first F1 race at Imola

Valterri Bottas on Saturday snatched pole position from Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton in the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in what was a dramatic late lap in qualifying at Imola. The Finn, 77 points behind series leader and six-time champion Hamilton, grabbed the pole position by a tenth of a second.

Hamilton, who was the quickest in practice on Saturday morning, had been on top in most of the qualifying season, took provisional pole during his first run in Q3 only for Bottas to overtake him in the final seconds.

Max Verstappen finished third for Red Bull ahead of Alpha Tauri’s Pierre Gasly, Renault’s Daniel Ricciardo and Alex Albon of Red Bull.

Charles Leclerc took seventh for Ferrari with Daniil Kvyat eight in the second Alpha Tauri ahead of two McLarens of Norris and Sainz. 
Bottas final-second pole qualification brought him his fourth pole of the season and his 15th career pole as Mercedes claimed another front row ahead of the race in Imola in which they can complete an unprecedented seventh consecutive championship.

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"It’s never easy to get pole position, but I really enjoyed it around this track,” said Bottas.

"I knew I had to improve on my last lap, so I found those little gains – and I had the shakes after the final run, which is always a good sign!”

Hamilton praised his team-mate.

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"Valtteri did a great job and it was a pretty poor lap from myself, but you can’t always get it right. This track is unbelievable, but I’m pretty certain it will be a boring race tomorrow – just a train after Turn One.”

Verstappen said: “It was tricky, but P3 is not bad really – though I expected to be a bit closer to the Mercedes.”

(With inputs from AFP)

Valterri Bottas on Saturday snatched pole position from Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton in the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in what was a dramatic late lap in qualifying at Imola.

Valterri Bottas on Saturday snatched pole position from Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton in the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in what was a dramatic late lap in qualifying at Imola. The Finn, 77 points behind series leader and six-time champion Hamilton, grabbed the pole position by a tenth of a second. Hamilton, who was the quickest in practice on Saturday morning, had been on top in most of the qualifying season, took provisional pole during his first run in Q3 only for Bottas to overtake him in the final seconds. Max Verstappen finished third for Red Bull ahead of Alpha Tauri’s Pierre Gasly, Renault’s Daniel Ricciardo and Alex Albon of Red Bull. Charles Leclerc took seventh for Ferrari with Daniil Kvyat eight in the second Alpha Tauri ahead of two McLarens of Norris and Sainz. Bottas final-second pole qualification brought him his fourth pole of the season and his 15th career pole as Mercedes claimed another front row ahead of the race in Imola in which they can complete an unprecedented seventh consecutive championship. ALSO READ: RIP Sean Connery: James Bond actor who almost became a Manchester United player "It’s never easy to get pole position, but I really enjoyed it around this track,” said Bottas. "I knew I had to improve on my last lap, so I found those little gains – and I had the shakes after the final run, which is always a good sign!” Hamilton praised his team-mate. ALSO READ: Salary cap for drivers in Formula One? Talks on but nothing agreed "Valtteri did a great job and it was a pretty poor lap from myself, but you can’t always get it right. This track is unbelievable, but I’m pretty certain it will be a boring race tomorrow – just a train after Turn One.” Verstappen said: “It was tricky, but P3 is not bad really – though I expected to be a bit closer to the Mercedes.” (With inputs from AFP)

Valterri Bottas snatches pole from Lewis Hamilton as F1 returns to Imola

Lewis Hamilton may go on to win 10 world titles, but his status as the greatest could be undermined by a lack of true rivals, according to two of Britain's best-known former racers.

Martin Brundle and Damon Hill both agreed that the six-time champion is a relentless and deserved record-breaking success story, Brundle saying he felt privileged to witness his feats.

Hamilton last Sunday became the sport's most successful driver when he claimed a record 92nd win, moving one clear of seven-time champion Michael Schumacher's 14-year record of 91 wins.

Hill, the 1996 world champion, believes Hamilton needs to be challenged by and beat another driver of the same calibre if he is to silence the doubters.

"There's a risk that Lewis's achievements will be measured against the intensity of his competition," said Hill, who had to beat Schumacher to win his title.

"Mercedes have totally dominated this era and Lewis is not challenged."

Brundle said he would not be surprised if Hamilton won 10 championships.

"I'm not sure we ever thought anybody would approach, let alone surpass, Michael Schumacher's tally of 91 victories," the commentator told Sky Sports before adding "and I think there's a long way to go yet".

Brundle added that Hamilton, like Schumacher, says he is not interested in statistics and league tables, but did this only to deflect pressure.

"I could see Lewis aiming at something like 10 frankly and a long way north of 100 victories."

Hamilton will be seeking a 93rd victory to help Mercedes seal an unprecedented seventh consecutive constructors title at this weekend's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid much speculation about his future.

He is out of contract this year and Formula One is heading towards a likely salary cap for drivers in 2023.

Reports have suggested that Hamilton wants to improve on his current deal, claimed to be worth around 40 million euros per season while Mercedes want to cut costs.

Team boss Toto Wolff is also out of contract this year, but like Hamilton has said he wants to stay with the team – and would much prefer to secure the champion on a multi-year deal instead of a one-year extension.

Hamilton has a lead of 77 points ahead of nearest rival and Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who has agreed already to stay with the team next year.

As the F1 circus returns to Imola, for the first time in 14 years, Hill and Brundle will have memories of the tragic 1994 San Marino Grand Prix stirred.&nbsp;

That weekend saw the deaths of Hill's&nbsp;close friend Austrian Roland Ratzenberger in qualifying and his Williams team-mate Brazilian Ayrton Senna during the race.

Lewis Hamilton may go on to win 10 world titles, but his status as the greatest could be undermined by a lack of true rivals, according to two of Britain's best-known former racers.

Lewis Hamilton may go on to win 10 world titles, but his status as the greatest could be undermined by a lack of true rivals, according to two of Britain's best-known former racers. Martin Brundle and Damon Hill both agreed that the six-time champion is a relentless and deserved record-breaking success story, Brundle saying he felt privileged to witness his feats. Hamilton last Sunday became the sport's most successful driver when he claimed a record 92nd win, moving one clear of seven-time champion Michael Schumacher's 14-year record of 91 wins. Hill, the 1996 world champion, believes Hamilton needs to be challenged by and beat another driver of the same calibre if he is to silence the doubters. "There's a risk that Lewis's achievements will be measured against the intensity of his competition," said Hill, who had to beat Schumacher to win his title. "Mercedes have totally dominated this era and Lewis is not challenged." Brundle said he would not be surprised if Hamilton won 10 championships. "I'm not sure we ever thought anybody would approach, let alone surpass, Michael Schumacher's tally of 91 victories," the commentator told Sky Sports before adding "and I think there's a long way to go yet". Brundle added that Hamilton, like Schumacher, says he is not interested in statistics and league tables, but did this only to deflect pressure. "I could see Lewis aiming at something like 10 frankly and a long way north of 100 victories." Hamilton will be seeking a 93rd victory to help Mercedes seal an unprecedented seventh consecutive constructors title at this weekend's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid much speculation about his future. He is out of contract this year and Formula One is heading towards a likely salary cap for drivers in 2023. Reports have suggested that Hamilton wants to improve on his current deal, claimed to be worth around 40 million euros per season while Mercedes want to cut costs. Team boss Toto Wolff is also out of contract this year, but like Hamilton has said he wants to stay with the team – and would much prefer to secure the champion on a multi-year deal instead of a one-year extension. Hamilton has a lead of 77 points ahead of nearest rival and Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who has agreed already to stay with the team next year. As the F1 circus returns to Imola, for the first time in 14 years, Hill and Brundle will have memories of the tragic 1994 San Marino Grand Prix stirred. That weekend saw the deaths of Hill's close friend Austrian Roland Ratzenberger in qualifying and his Williams team-mate Brazilian Ayrton Senna during the race.

Hamilton legacy under threat due to 'lack of challengers'

Norris, who made his Formula One debut last year, has made 33 starts so far with one podium finish.McLaren’s racer Lando Norris on Tuesday publicly apologized for recent comments, without naming anyone, after the Briton played down Lewis Hamilton’s record 92nd Formula One triumph at Sunday’s Portuguese Grand Prix.

Norris, 20, the youngest driver on the grid, had criticized Racing Point’s Lance Stroll after the duo collided during the race. While Norris ended up 13th, stewards published Stroll for the incident.

“I owe an apology,” said Norris to his 750,000 followers on Twitter. “I’ve been stupid and careless with some things I’ve said lately in media and interviews, and haven’t shown the respect I should have to certain people.

“I’m not that kind of person, so know I should apologise to them but also everyone reading/listening. Sorry.” 
Norris was asked about Hamilton becoming the most successful F1 driver ever (in terms of wins) as he overtook Ferrari legend Michael Schumacher while shattering the record books.

“I’m just happy for him, nothing more,” the Briton had replied.

“It doesn’t mean anything to me, really. He’s in a car which should win every race, basically.

“He has to beat one or two other drivers, that’s it. Fair play to him, he’s still doing the job he has to do.”

Hamilton has won eight of the 12 races this season and is eyeing record-equalling seventh world championship, which would confirm him as the most successful racer in the history of the sport. He has average 10 wins in a season since 2014.

Whereas, Mercedes have won the last six championships and are on course to clinch the seventh in Italy next weekend. 
Meanwhile, Norris who made his F1 debut in 2019, has so far made 33 starts thus far with one podium finish. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Norris, who made his Formula One debut last year, has made 33 starts so far with one podium finish.McLaren’s racer Lando Norris on Tuesday publicly apologized for recent comments, without naming anyone, after the Briton played down Lewis Hamilton’s record 92nd Formula One triumph at Sunday’s Portuguese Grand Prix.

Norris, who made his Formula One debut last year, has made 33 starts so far with one podium finish.McLaren’s racer Lando Norris on Tuesday publicly apologized for recent comments, without naming anyone, after the Briton played down Lewis Hamilton’s record 92nd Formula One triumph at Sunday’s Portuguese Grand Prix. Norris, 20, the youngest driver on the grid, had criticized Racing Point’s Lance Stroll after the duo collided during the race. While Norris ended up 13th, stewards published Stroll for the incident. “I owe an apology,” said Norris to his 750,000 followers on Twitter. “I’ve been stupid and careless with some things I’ve said lately in media and interviews, and haven’t shown the respect I should have to certain people. “I’m not that kind of person, so know I should apologise to them but also everyone reading/listening. Sorry.” Norris was asked about Hamilton becoming the most successful F1 driver ever (in terms of wins) as he overtook Ferrari legend Michael Schumacher while shattering the record books. “I’m just happy for him, nothing more,” the Briton had replied. “It doesn’t mean anything to me, really. He’s in a car which should win every race, basically. “He has to beat one or two other drivers, that’s it. Fair play to him, he’s still doing the job he has to do.” Hamilton has won eight of the 12 races this season and is eyeing record-equalling seventh world championship, which would confirm him as the most successful racer in the history of the sport. He has average 10 wins in a season since 2014. Whereas, Mercedes have won the last six championships and are on course to clinch the seventh in Italy next weekend. Meanwhile, Norris who made his F1 debut in 2019, has so far made 33 starts thus far with one podium finish.

McLaren's Lando Norris apologises for 'stupid and careless' comments

Six-times world champion Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;became the most successful Formula One driver of all time in terms of race wins on Sunday with a dominant 92nd career victory at the Portuguese Grand Prix.

The Mercedes driver, who took the chequered flag a huge 25.592 seconds ahead of second-placed teammate Valtteri Bottas, had equalled Ferrari great Michael Schumacher's record 91 wins at the previous race at the Nuerburgring.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-eyes-michael-schumachers-f1-track-record-with-8th-win-314011">Lewis Hamilton eyes Michael Schumacher's F1 track record with 8th win</a>

Victory, along with a bonus point for fastest lap, stretched the Briton's championship lead over Bottas to 77 points with five races remaining.

"You are re-writing the history books," Mercedes told&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;over the team radio, with team boss Toto Wolff adding: "Lewis, 92. 92."

"I owe it all to these guys here and back at the factory," said&nbsp;Hamilton.

"It's just been such a privilege working with them," added the Briton, who was joined on the podium by race engineer Peter 'Bono' Bonnington.

"Today was tough but it was all about temperatures."

Dutch youngster Max Verstappen finished third for Red Bull at the Algarve circuit near Portimao that was hosting the country's first grand prix in 24 years.

Hamilton&nbsp;lapped all but the three drivers behind him but it had not looked so simple at the start when he dropped to third from pole position on a lively opening lap with occasional rain complicating matters.

Bottas, who had gone ahead, was then passed on lap two by McLaren's Spaniard Carlos Sainz, who had started seventh on the soft tyres, with the Mercedes pair struggling to get heat into the medium rubber.

Verstappen had meanwhile dropped to fifth after tangling with Racing Point's Mexican Sergio Perez, who pitted and dropped to last but recovered to finish seventh.

Bottas retook the lead on lap six as the tyres fired up, with&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;moving up to second, and stayed ahead until his team mate overtook him on lap 20 to lead for the first time since the opening lap.

Hamilton, whose father was at the circuit to see his triumph, reported cramp with seven laps to go but then proceeded to set a series of fastest laps.

"I could never have dreamed of being where I am today," he said after his eighth win of the season and 71st since he joined Mercedes.

"I didn't have a magic ball when I chose to come to this team and partner with great people, but here I am and what I can tell you is I'm trying to make the most of it every single day.

"It's going to take some time to sink in. I was still pushing flat out coming across the line."

Bottas said he just had no pace. "I was pushing hard but couldn't go faster," complained the Finn.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finished fourth with AlphaTauri's Pierre Gasly fifth.

Sainz was sixth with Renault's Esteban Ocon and Daniel Ricciardo eighth and ninth.

Four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel took the final point for Ferrari.

Lance Stroll, who missed the last race and then tested positive for COVID-19, was the only retirement of the afternoon with the team reporting floor damage. The Canadian had already collected multiple penalties by then.

Six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton became the most successful Formula One driver of all time in terms of race wins on Sunday with a dominant 92nd career victory at the Portuguese Grand Prix.

Six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton became the most successful Formula One driver of all time in terms of race wins on Sunday with a dominant 92nd career victory at the Portuguese Grand Prix. The Mercedes driver, who took the chequered flag a huge 25.592 seconds ahead of second-placed teammate Valtteri Bottas, had equalled Ferrari great Michael Schumacher's record 91 wins at the previous race at the Nuerburgring. Also read: Lewis Hamilton eyes Michael Schumacher's F1 track record with 8th win Victory, along with a bonus point for fastest lap, stretched the Briton's championship lead over Bottas to 77 points with five races remaining. "You are re-writing the history books," Mercedes told Hamilton over the team radio, with team boss Toto Wolff adding: "Lewis, 92. 92." "I owe it all to these guys here and back at the factory," said Hamilton. "It's just been such a privilege working with them," added the Briton, who was joined on the podium by race engineer Peter 'Bono' Bonnington. "Today was tough but it was all about temperatures." Dutch youngster Max Verstappen finished third for Red Bull at the Algarve circuit near Portimao that was hosting the country's first grand prix in 24 years. Hamilton lapped all but the three drivers behind him but it had not looked so simple at the start when he dropped to third from pole position on a lively opening lap with occasional rain complicating matters. Bottas, who had gone ahead, was then passed on lap two by McLaren's Spaniard Carlos Sainz, who had started seventh on the soft tyres, with the Mercedes pair struggling to get heat into the medium rubber. Verstappen had meanwhile dropped to fifth after tangling with Racing Point's Mexican Sergio Perez, who pitted and dropped to last but recovered to finish seventh. Bottas retook the lead on lap six as the tyres fired up, with Hamilton moving up to second, and stayed ahead until his team mate overtook him on lap 20 to lead for the first time since the opening lap. Hamilton, whose father was at the circuit to see his triumph, reported cramp with seven laps to go but then proceeded to set a series of fastest laps. "I could never have dreamed of being where I am today," he said after his eighth win of the season and 71st since he joined Mercedes. "I didn't have a magic ball when I chose to come to this team and partner with great people, but here I am and what I can tell you is I'm trying to make the most of it every single day. "It's going to take some time to sink in. I was still pushing flat out coming across the line." Bottas said he just had no pace. "I was pushing hard but couldn't go faster," complained the Finn. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finished fourth with AlphaTauri's Pierre Gasly fifth. Sainz was sixth with Renault's Esteban Ocon and Daniel Ricciardo eighth and ninth. Four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel took the final point for Ferrari. Lance Stroll, who missed the last race and then tested positive for COVID-19, was the only retirement of the afternoon with the team reporting floor damage. The Canadian had already collected multiple penalties by then.

Hamilton overtakes Schumacher with record 92nd F1 win

'World Record': Lewis Hamilton's 92nd career win Formula One

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton broke Schumacher's long-time record after registering his 92nd career win in Portugal Grand Prix.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/formula-one-goat-lewis-hamiltons-career-defining-races-338000" hreflang="en">Formula One 'GOAT' Lewis Hamilton's career-defining races!</a>

The Briton revealed the reason behind his dominating win in Portuguese GP. According to Hamilton, he had challenged his engineer before the race.

During the post-race interview, Lewis thanked his engineers for their contribution in his prolific career. He said: "They’re never too happy. So I really enjoy the collaboration that we have."

"I’m so proud that we listen to each other, challenge each other. This weekend, I challenged on certain things. That’s why I had the speed that I had today.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hamilton-overtakes-schumacher-with-record-92nd-f1-win-337948" hreflang="en">Hamilton overtakes Schumacher with record 92nd F1 win</a>

"And I feel good about that. To be ought to challenge engineers who are so intelligent, and to speak to them on the same wavelength in certain areas is a cool position to be in."

Six-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton is looking to equal Schumacher's record of 7 wins.&nbsp;

"I feel fantastic, naturally. Of course, very grateful to; I’m just constantly thinking about the guys that I’m working with. Everyone has come here weekend in weekend out," he added.&nbsp;

"And the guys back at the factory continue to believe in me. You know, we’ve been together a long time. So, I sometimes have to ask the guys. Because, of course, you can get used to success."

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton broke Schumacher's long-time record after registering his 92nd career win in Portugal Grand Prix. IN PICS: Formula One 'GOAT' Lewis Hamilton's career-defining races!

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton broke Schumacher's long-time record after registering his 92nd career win in Portugal Grand Prix. IN PICS: Formula One 'GOAT' Lewis Hamilton's career-defining races! The Briton revealed the reason behind his dominating win in Portuguese GP. According to Hamilton, he had challenged his engineer before the race. During the post-race interview, Lewis thanked his engineers for their contribution in his prolific career. He said: "They’re never too happy. So I really enjoy the collaboration that we have." "I’m so proud that we listen to each other, challenge each other. This weekend, I challenged on certain things. That’s why I had the speed that I had today. Also read: Hamilton overtakes Schumacher with record 92nd F1 win "And I feel good about that. To be ought to challenge engineers who are so intelligent, and to speak to them on the same wavelength in certain areas is a cool position to be in." Six-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton is looking to equal Schumacher's record of 7 wins. "I feel fantastic, naturally. Of course, very grateful to; I’m just constantly thinking about the guys that I’m working with. Everyone has come here weekend in weekend out," he added. "And the guys back at the factory continue to believe in me. You know, we’ve been together a long time. So, I sometimes have to ask the guys. Because, of course, you can get used to success."

Formula One: Lewis Hamilton reveals real reason behind his 92nd career win

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton on Sunday win the Eifel Grand Prix, and in the process equalled the great Michael Schumacher's record of 91 F1 race wins.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/towering-hamilton-wins-eifel-grand-prix-equals-schumachers-record-334531" hreflang="en">Towering Hamilton wins Eifel Grand Prix, equals Schumacher's record</a>

India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar congratulated the British driver for this feat.&nbsp;

He took to Twitter and wrote: "Since the time you've taken up the sport, you've been very special. I have always liked your grit and balanced aggression while driving the @F1 car. Congratulations on your 91st GP win equalling Schumacher's record. Wishing you the very best for the future".&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Since the time you’ve taken up the sport, you’ve been very special. 
I have always liked your grit and balanced aggression while driving the <a href="https://twitter.com/F1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@F1</a> car. 
 
Congratulations on your 91st GP win equalling Schumacher’s record. Wishing you the very best for the future. <a href="https://t.co/iPMKsiqshU">pic.twitter.com/iPMKsiqshU</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1315567774606004224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In 2002, Sachin was presented with a Ferrari by Michael Schumacher on behalf of Fiat.&nbsp;

In a touching tribute, Mick Schumacher presented Hamilton with one of his father's race helmets.

"Seeing Michael's dominance for so long I don't think anyone especially me could ever think of getting near Michael in terms of records," said Hamilton.

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton on Sunday win the Eifel Grand Prix, and in the process equalled the great Michael Schumacher's record of 91 F1 race wins. Also read: Towering Hamilton wins Eifel Grand Prix, equals Schumacher's record India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar congratulated the British driver for this feat.

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton on Sunday win the Eifel Grand Prix, and in the process equalled the great Michael Schumacher's record of 91 F1 race wins. Also read: Towering Hamilton wins Eifel Grand Prix, equals Schumacher's record India's cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar congratulated the British driver for this feat. He took to Twitter and wrote: "Since the time you've taken up the sport, you've been very special. I have always liked your grit and balanced aggression while driving the @F1 car. Congratulations on your 91st GP win equalling Schumacher's record. Wishing you the very best for the future". Since the time you’ve taken up the sport, you’ve been very special. I have always liked your grit and balanced aggression while driving the @F1 car. Congratulations on your 91st GP win equalling Schumacher’s record. Wishing you the very best for the future. pic.twitter.com/iPMKsiqshU — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 12, 2020 × In 2002, Sachin was presented with a Ferrari by Michael Schumacher on behalf of Fiat. In a touching tribute, Mick Schumacher presented Hamilton with one of his father's race helmets. "Seeing Michael's dominance for so long I don't think anyone especially me could ever think of getting near Michael in terms of records," said Hamilton.

'You've been very ...': Sachin Tendulkar's special message to Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton equalled Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 Formula One wins on Sunday when he guided his Mercedes to a narrow, if measured, victory at a frantic Eifel Grand Prix.

Taking full advantage of team-mate and pole-sitter Valtteri Bottas’ early retirement with engine problems, the runaway series leader and six-time champion drove a well-judged race to claim his seventh victory from 11 contests this year.

"What a result," he said on the Mercedes team radio after taking the chequered flag clear of Max Verstappen for Red Bull with Renault's Daniel Ricciardo in third. &nbsp;

In a touching tribute Mick Schumacher presented Hamilton with one of his father's race helmets.

"Seeing Michael's dominance for so long I don't think anyone especially me could ever think of getting near Michael in terms of records," said Hamilton.

On a circuit where Germany’s seven-time champion Schumacher won five times, Hamilton took his second Nurburgring victory – his previous was for McLaren in 2011.

Bottas’ bad luck handed Hamilton his chance and almost certainly ended his own title bid as the Briton moved 69 points clear ahead of him in the drivers’ championship.

Ricciardo’s podium success meant that he had won a bet with Renault team boss Cyril Abiteboul, requiring the Frenchman to take a tattoo prescribed for him by the Australian.

Sergio Perez finished fourth for Racing Point ahead of Carlos Sainz of McLaren, Pierre Gasly of Alpha Tauri, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and ‘super-sub’ Nico Hulkenberg of Racing Point.

For Hulkenberg, it was a remarkable result coming only 24 hours after he had jumped into the cockpit of Lance Stroll’s car after a late call to action from a café in Cologne.

Romain Grosjean, with an injured finger, was ninth for Haas ahead of Antonio Giovinazzi of Alfa Romeo.

Lewis Hamilton equalled Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 Formula One wins on Sunday when he guided his Mercedes to a narrow, if measured, victory at a frantic Eifel Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton equalled Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 Formula One wins on Sunday when he guided his Mercedes to a narrow, if measured, victory at a frantic Eifel Grand Prix. Taking full advantage of team-mate and pole-sitter Valtteri Bottas’ early retirement with engine problems, the runaway series leader and six-time champion drove a well-judged race to claim his seventh victory from 11 contests this year. "What a result," he said on the Mercedes team radio after taking the chequered flag clear of Max Verstappen for Red Bull with Renault's Daniel Ricciardo in third. In a touching tribute Mick Schumacher presented Hamilton with one of his father's race helmets. "Seeing Michael's dominance for so long I don't think anyone especially me could ever think of getting near Michael in terms of records," said Hamilton. On a circuit where Germany’s seven-time champion Schumacher won five times, Hamilton took his second Nurburgring victory – his previous was for McLaren in 2011. Bottas’ bad luck handed Hamilton his chance and almost certainly ended his own title bid as the Briton moved 69 points clear ahead of him in the drivers’ championship. Ricciardo’s podium success meant that he had won a bet with Renault team boss Cyril Abiteboul, requiring the Frenchman to take a tattoo prescribed for him by the Australian. Sergio Perez finished fourth for Racing Point ahead of Carlos Sainz of McLaren, Pierre Gasly of Alpha Tauri, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and ‘super-sub’ Nico Hulkenberg of Racing Point. For Hulkenberg, it was a remarkable result coming only 24 hours after he had jumped into the cockpit of Lance Stroll’s car after a late call to action from a café in Cologne. Romain Grosjean, with an injured finger, was ninth for Haas ahead of Antonio Giovinazzi of Alfa Romeo.

Towering Hamilton wins Eifel Grand Prix, equals Schumacher's record

Three names synonymous with glory and success will grab attention for contrasting reasons this weekend when the once-legendary Nurburgring hosts a Formula One race for the first time in seven years.

Lewis Hamilton will be seeking, at the second attempt, to equal Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 wins while the seven-time champion German's son&nbsp;Mick is set to make his F1 debut in Friday's opening practice with Alfa Romeo.

Alongside them, Sebastian Vettel – the last winner at the historic venue in 2013 – will be bidding to avoid any banana skins as he embarks on his closing chapter with Ferrari, having admitted on Wednesday that his spell with the Italian team has been a failure.

All three men and the rest of the travelling F1 circus are expected to face severely cold conditions with rain and low temperatures forecast for the weekend's inaugural Eifel Grand Prix.

For Hamilton, there is more at stake than a chance to claim another record as he presses on in pursuit of equalling Schumacher’s haul of seven drivers' championships.

After his disappointment at the Russian Grand Prix, where he was handed two controversial five-second penalties on his way to a fighting third and a subsequent outburst, in which he claimed there was a conspiracy to slow him down, he will be seeking to reclaim his dominance and dignity.

Like Vettel, he is a former winner at the track which, in a previous incarnation as the feared ‘Nordschleife’, witnessed the birth of the ‘Silver Arrows’ in 1934, when Manfred von Brauchitsch won the International Eifel Race.

Hamilton triumphed in 2011 with McLaren, powered by a Mercedes engine, but he has not claimed victory in the Eifel mountains since joining the current Mercedes works team.

Mercedes have registered only one F1 win at the venue – delivered on the daunting ‘old’ circuit by Juan-Manuel Fangio in 1954 – and may not find it easy this weekend despite their absolute dominance since the start of this Covid-19 affected season.

Hamilton goes into the race with a 44-point lead in the drivers’ title race ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who won in Sochi two weeks ago and remains determined to close the gap on the six-time champion.

"I won't give up and we'll keep pushing,” he said, mindful that Hamilton is expected to react to his testy defeat in Russia, since when the defending champion has kept a low profile, with a typically inspired display.

<h2>- 'Surreal' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Formula Two championship leader Mick Schumacher will not be the only one of Ferrari’s junior drivers in action at the German circuit as his rival and colleague Briton Callum Ilott is due to drive for Haas on Friday morning.

Schumacher, 21, said it will be a special experience to make his debut on home German soil. He leads Ilott in the F2 title race and both will be vying to impress in the hope of landing an F1 seat next year.

Ahead of his debut, Vettel gave Schumacher a warm welcome. "It was surreal to see him in his father’s Ferrari at Mugello," he said. “He is just a nice young man and, knowing who his father is, and what he meant to me, it was very special.

"This situation is very difficult for him, but I think he is coping with it in a mature way for someone so young.”

Schumacher added: “It looks like it is going to be wet – every time I test a new car, it is always wet! I hope I can do a few laps and do my best.”

Vettel, who regarded Michael Schumacher as his racing hero, said he had failed at Ferrari because he failed to win a title. “That was my mission,” he said. “So, I have failed. I didn’t manage to do that.”

His former team Red Bull are likely to mount the main challenge to Hamilton and Bottas, in their 2020 ‘black arrows’ cars, with Max Verstappen leading the way just days after engine-suppliers Honda announced they will withdraw from F1 next year.

Three names synonymous with glory and success will grab attention for contrasting reasons this weekend when the once-legendary Nurburgring hosts a Formula One race for the first time in seven years.

Three names synonymous with glory and success will grab attention for contrasting reasons this weekend when the once-legendary Nurburgring hosts a Formula One race for the first time in seven years. Lewis Hamilton will be seeking, at the second attempt, to equal Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 wins while the seven-time champion German's son Mick is set to make his F1 debut in Friday's opening practice with Alfa Romeo. Alongside them, Sebastian Vettel – the last winner at the historic venue in 2013 – will be bidding to avoid any banana skins as he embarks on his closing chapter with Ferrari, having admitted on Wednesday that his spell with the Italian team has been a failure. All three men and the rest of the travelling F1 circus are expected to face severely cold conditions with rain and low temperatures forecast for the weekend's inaugural Eifel Grand Prix. For Hamilton, there is more at stake than a chance to claim another record as he presses on in pursuit of equalling Schumacher’s haul of seven drivers' championships. After his disappointment at the Russian Grand Prix, where he was handed two controversial five-second penalties on his way to a fighting third and a subsequent outburst, in which he claimed there was a conspiracy to slow him down, he will be seeking to reclaim his dominance and dignity. Like Vettel, he is a former winner at the track which, in a previous incarnation as the feared ‘Nordschleife’, witnessed the birth of the ‘Silver Arrows’ in 1934, when Manfred von Brauchitsch won the International Eifel Race. Hamilton triumphed in 2011 with McLaren, powered by a Mercedes engine, but he has not claimed victory in the Eifel mountains since joining the current Mercedes works team. Mercedes have registered only one F1 win at the venue – delivered on the daunting ‘old’ circuit by Juan-Manuel Fangio in 1954 – and may not find it easy this weekend despite their absolute dominance since the start of this Covid-19 affected season. Hamilton goes into the race with a 44-point lead in the drivers’ title race ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who won in Sochi two weeks ago and remains determined to close the gap on the six-time champion. "I won't give up and we'll keep pushing,” he said, mindful that Hamilton is expected to react to his testy defeat in Russia, since when the defending champion has kept a low profile, with a typically inspired display. - 'Surreal' - Formula Two championship leader Mick Schumacher will not be the only one of Ferrari’s junior drivers in action at the German circuit as his rival and colleague Briton Callum Ilott is due to drive for Haas on Friday morning. Schumacher, 21, said it will be a special experience to make his debut on home German soil. He leads Ilott in the F2 title race and both will be vying to impress in the hope of landing an F1 seat next year. Ahead of his debut, Vettel gave Schumacher a warm welcome. "It was surreal to see him in his father’s Ferrari at Mugello," he said. “He is just a nice young man and, knowing who his father is, and what he meant to me, it was very special. "This situation is very difficult for him, but I think he is coping with it in a mature way for someone so young.” Schumacher added: “It looks like it is going to be wet – every time I test a new car, it is always wet! I hope I can do a few laps and do my best.” Vettel, who regarded Michael Schumacher as his racing hero, said he had failed at Ferrari because he failed to win a title. “That was my mission,” he said. “So, I have failed. I didn’t manage to do that.” His former team Red Bull are likely to mount the main challenge to Hamilton and Bottas, in their 2020 ‘black arrows’ cars, with Max Verstappen leading the way just days after engine-suppliers Honda announced they will withdraw from F1 next year.

Hamilton resumes record trail on F1's Nurburgring return

Lewis Hamilton has offered a veiled apology for his claim that Formula One bosses are singling him out after he was hit with a 10-second penalty at the Russian Grand Prix.

Hamilton's bid to match Michael Schumacher's record of 91 victories in Sochi on Sunday was wrecked when he was punished with two five-second penalties for pre-race misdemeanours.

He had also been given two penalty points on his super license by the race stewards but they subsequently cancelled them and instead fined his team Mercedes.

The six-time world champion claimed afterwards F1's governing body, the FIA, were finding new ways to stop him from winning.

But in a social media post on Tuesday, Hamilton wrote: "I may not always get it right in the face of adversity.

"I may not always react the way you want me to when tensions are high, but I am only human after all and I am passionate about what I do.

"I'm learning and growing every day, and I'll take my lessons and keep fighting on to the next one. Thank you to those who continue to support and are right there fighting with me."

Hamilton will now have to wait until at least Germany's Eifel Grand Prix on October 11 to match Schumacher's all-time tally.

F1's motorsport managing director Ross Brawn called on the British driver to learn from the incident.

Brawn said: "Personally, I would go away, lick my wounds and think about how I could prevent such incidences again in the future.

"That's what I know Mercedes will be doing. I know many of the people from my time at the team and they will recognise they have made some mistakes.

"Bad luck and mistakes happen, but it's how you respond that matters. It's easy to think the world is against you but there is nearly always something you could have done differently and you can learn from."

The F1 circus next heads to the Nurburgring for the first time since 2013 for the 11th of 17 rounds this year.

Despite Valtteri Bottas's triumph on Sunday, Hamilton, who finished third in Sochi, will head to Germany with a 44-point lead in his quest to be crowned world champion for a record-equalling seventh time.

Lewis Hamilton has offered a veiled apology for his claim that Formula One bosses are singling him out after he was hit with a 10-second penalty at the Russian Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton has offered a veiled apology for his claim that Formula One bosses are singling him out after he was hit with a 10-second penalty at the Russian Grand Prix. Hamilton's bid to match Michael Schumacher's record of 91 victories in Sochi on Sunday was wrecked when he was punished with two five-second penalties for pre-race misdemeanours. He had also been given two penalty points on his super license by the race stewards but they subsequently cancelled them and instead fined his team Mercedes. The six-time world champion claimed afterwards F1's governing body, the FIA, were finding new ways to stop him from winning. But in a social media post on Tuesday, Hamilton wrote: "I may not always get it right in the face of adversity. "I may not always react the way you want me to when tensions are high, but I am only human after all and I am passionate about what I do. "I'm learning and growing every day, and I'll take my lessons and keep fighting on to the next one. Thank you to those who continue to support and are right there fighting with me." Hamilton will now have to wait until at least Germany's Eifel Grand Prix on October 11 to match Schumacher's all-time tally. F1's motorsport managing director Ross Brawn called on the British driver to learn from the incident. Brawn said: "Personally, I would go away, lick my wounds and think about how I could prevent such incidences again in the future. "That's what I know Mercedes will be doing. I know many of the people from my time at the team and they will recognise they have made some mistakes. "Bad luck and mistakes happen, but it's how you respond that matters. It's easy to think the world is against you but there is nearly always something you could have done differently and you can learn from." The F1 circus next heads to the Nurburgring for the first time since 2013 for the 11th of 17 rounds this year. Despite Valtteri Bottas's triumph on Sunday, Hamilton, who finished third in Sochi, will head to Germany with a 44-point lead in his quest to be crowned world champion for a record-equalling seventh time.

Hamilton offers veiled apology after F1 accusations

Tennis legend Serena Williams expects Formula One's Lewis Hamilton to surpass F1 legend Michael Schumacher's record of being the most successful driver in the sport.

Tennis legend Serena Williams expects Formula One's Lewis Hamilton to surpass F1 legend Michael Schumacher's record of being the most successful driver in the sport. The American ace also has her sights on a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at the French Open while six-times world champion Hamilton has his first chance to match Schumacher's record 91 wins at this weekend's Russian Grand Prix. "He is for me the greatest driver that our generation has seen. I'm confident that he will break the record of Michael Schumacher, who was also a fabulous driver," Williams told reporters on Saturday. The Williams sister and Hamilton have been close to each other for a long time. They have attended Grand Prix in the past. In 2016, Hamilton spoke of how he was "mesmerised" by Serena's achievements as an athlete and inspired by her as a human being. "Lewis and I are super close. I've known him for years. I love that guy. He's a really good friend of mine. The guy is such a champion, has such a champion's mindset," said Williams on the eve of the Roland Garros tournament. "I look at what he does training, physically, his job, it's really no words for it, to be honest. "Lewis is so intense. If you know anything, even if you're a fan, you know he lives his life on his sleeve. He's very emotional. He says what he says," continued the American. "That's just who he is. He doesn't care who you are. "That's one thing I've grown to really appreciate about him, as well." (Inputs from Reuters)

'He is for me the greatest F1 driver': Serena Williams on Lewis Hamilton

'Not enough': Athletes angered as officers cleared of criminal charges in death of Breonna Taylor

Lewis Hamilton seeks to equal Michael Schumacher's record 91 Formula One wins at the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi on Sunday despite fears over a potential coronavirus fall-out from allowing 30,000 fans to attend.&nbsp;

The six-time world champion is one win away from what once was believed to be an untouchable total, but he will be a clear favourite to succeed on a track where he has triumphed four times in six years.

He has also reeled off six wins in nine races this season to open up a 55-point lead ahead of Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas in the title race, the Finn and former team-mate 2016 champion Nico Rosberg being the only other victors since Sochi arrived on the calendar.

Another Mercedes win at the former home of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games would also be a record for most successive victories by a team at a single Grand Prix.

But all involved with the champions are aware that not only is the event set to be the first sporting occasion to host a major crowd in the Covid-19 era, but it will also see the team shadowed by a Netflix film crew.

The organisers say 30,000 spectators are expected and that the race is sold out.&nbsp;

The cameras will be recording content for the third 'Drive to Survive' series – and tip-toeing around their subjects, hoping to avoid a repeat of events in Germany last year.

Then, at the German Grand Prix at Hockenheim, run in teeming rain, Mercedes celebrated 125 years of motorsport with their worst performance of the season – a flu-struck Hamilton ending up classified ninth and Bottas crashing out from fourth.

"It made a very entertaining episode for Netflix," said Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff. “

"But this time, we hope we can have great content – and have a great race."

Hamilton, lauded this week as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world this year, has approached the race with humility.

"I never thought that I would be here, that's for sure," he said after his 90th career triumph at the Tuscan Grand Prix two weeks ago.&nbsp;

"It just does not seem real to me."

His greatest rival this weekend is likely to be team-mate Bottas, winner on the tight Sochi track in 2017, his maiden triumph.

The Finn has proved himself to be a force on the circuit that suits his style and knows he has to wreck Hamilton's party to stay in the championship race.

After two pointless exits with car failures, Max Verstappen of Red Bull will be seeking a return to his earlier form.&nbsp;

"It's not easy in Sochi and the track is not a favourite for us with a lot of long straights – it's not easy to overtake," he said.

While the 30,000 fans attending the Olympic Park circuit enjoy a rare glimpse of live sport, F1's top officials are reported to be anxious about the potential threat from coronavirus.

Russia has exceeded one million cases of Covid-19 – one of only four nations to do so – and after nine events run behind closed doors in strictly-controlled bubbles, this relaxation of the tight controls has not been welcomed warmly by all in the paddock.&nbsp;

Lewis Hamilton seeks to equal Michael Schumacher's record 91 Formula One wins at the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi on Sunday despite fears over a potential coronavirus fall-out from allowing 30,000 fans to attend.

Lewis Hamilton seeks to equal Michael Schumacher's record 91 Formula One wins at the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi on Sunday despite fears over a potential coronavirus fall-out from allowing 30,000 fans to attend. The six-time world champion is one win away from what once was believed to be an untouchable total, but he will be a clear favourite to succeed on a track where he has triumphed four times in six years. He has also reeled off six wins in nine races this season to open up a 55-point lead ahead of Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas in the title race, the Finn and former team-mate 2016 champion Nico Rosberg being the only other victors since Sochi arrived on the calendar. Another Mercedes win at the former home of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games would also be a record for most successive victories by a team at a single Grand Prix. But all involved with the champions are aware that not only is the event set to be the first sporting occasion to host a major crowd in the Covid-19 era, but it will also see the team shadowed by a Netflix film crew. The organisers say 30,000 spectators are expected and that the race is sold out. The cameras will be recording content for the third 'Drive to Survive' series – and tip-toeing around their subjects, hoping to avoid a repeat of events in Germany last year. Then, at the German Grand Prix at Hockenheim, run in teeming rain, Mercedes celebrated 125 years of motorsport with their worst performance of the season – a flu-struck Hamilton ending up classified ninth and Bottas crashing out from fourth. "It made a very entertaining episode for Netflix," said Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff. “ "But this time, we hope we can have great content – and have a great race." Hamilton, lauded this week as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world this year, has approached the race with humility. "I never thought that I would be here, that's for sure," he said after his 90th career triumph at the Tuscan Grand Prix two weeks ago. "It just does not seem real to me." His greatest rival this weekend is likely to be team-mate Bottas, winner on the tight Sochi track in 2017, his maiden triumph. The Finn has proved himself to be a force on the circuit that suits his style and knows he has to wreck Hamilton's party to stay in the championship race. After two pointless exits with car failures, Max Verstappen of Red Bull will be seeking a return to his earlier form. "It's not easy in Sochi and the track is not a favourite for us with a lot of long straights – it's not easy to overtake," he said. While the 30,000 fans attending the Olympic Park circuit enjoy a rare glimpse of live sport, F1's top officials are reported to be anxious about the potential threat from coronavirus. Russia has exceeded one million cases of Covid-19 – one of only four nations to do so – and after nine events run behind closed doors in strictly-controlled bubbles, this relaxation of the tight controls has not been welcomed warmly by all in the paddock.

Hamilton eyes Schumacher record despite Sochi virus worries

Ace Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton has avoided any action by F1’s governing body for the T-shirt he wore on the podium at the Tuscan Grand Prix. However, amid official review into FIA guidelines, Hamilton has now vowed to continue protesting and use his position to promote his views while raising awareness against discrimination.

Ahead of Sunday’s Tuscan Grand Prix, Hamilton took a knee while wearing a black T-shirt with the message: “Arrest the cops who killed Breonna Taylor”. He then went on to wear the same T-shirt in the post-match race interview and on the podium. Taylor, a 26-year-old black woman, was shot dead by police in Louisville six months ago.

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It’s been 6 months since Breonna Taylor was murdered by policemen, in her own home. Still no justice has been served. We won’t stay silent. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JusticeForBreonnaTaylor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JusticeForBreonnaTaylor</a> <a href="https://t.co/7zinVHiYcH">pic.twitter.com/7zinVHiYcH</a>
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) <a href="https://twitter.com/LewisHamilton/status/1305185960024510464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-only-regret-i-have-neymar-alleges-racism-after-alvaro-gonzalez-bust-up-in-psg-vs-marseille-327389" hreflang="en">'The only regret I have...' - Neymar alleges racism after Alvaro Gonzalez bust-up in PSG vs Marseille</a>

While the FIA is a non-political organization, the matter was looked into with a conclusion that Hamilton will not be punished.

However, FIA has launched a review of the current set of guidelines which included what racing drivers can wear during an event. 
Hamilton took to social media platform Instagram to declare that he will continue to use his standing as a six-time winner to promote his views.

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✊ <a href="https://t.co/OXXW8OIy9C">pic.twitter.com/OXXW8OIy9C</a>
— Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/MercedesAMGF1/status/1305180657140797442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sebastian-vettel-signs-for-aston-martin-from-ferrari-for-2021-and-beyond-326573" hreflang="en">Sebastian Vettel signs for Aston Martin from Ferrari for '2021 and beyond'</a>

“I want you to know that I won’t stop,” he wrote on Tuesday. “I won’t let up. I won’t give up on using this platform to shed light on what I believe is right. This is a journey for all of us to come together and challenge the world on every level of injustice, not only racial. We can help make this a better place for our kids and the future generations.”

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✊ <a href="https://twitter.com/LewisHamilton?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LewisHamilton</a> <a href="https://t.co/zb0rsn5Tfl">pic.twitter.com/zb0rsn5Tfl</a>
— Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/MercedesAMGF1/status/1305849221917089794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Damon Hill, Britain’s 1996 world champion, accused the sport of having previously ignored the issue of race. He wrote on Twitter: “Such mixed message to Lewis Hamilton’s t-shirt podium message.

“But F1 has always had its head in the sand over any issue that might make people think about anything other than F1. It has to make space for these messages if it is to be embraced by the wider world.”

Meanwhile, Hamilton is now one win away from equaling Michael Schumacher’s record with 90th career triumph of his career in Mugello last week. He will look to equalize Schumacher’s record at the Sochi Autodrom in Russia on Sunday. 
&nbsp;

Ace Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton has avoided any action by F1’s governing body for the T-shirt he wore on the podium at the Tuscan Grand Prix. However, amid official review into FIA guidelines, Hamilton has now vowed to continue protesting and use his position to promote his views while raising awareness against discrimination.

Ace Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton has avoided any action by F1’s governing body for the T-shirt he wore on the podium at the Tuscan Grand Prix. However, amid official review into FIA guidelines, Hamilton has now vowed to continue protesting and use his position to promote his views while raising awareness against discrimination. Ahead of Sunday’s Tuscan Grand Prix, Hamilton took a knee while wearing a black T-shirt with the message: “Arrest the cops who killed Breonna Taylor”. He then went on to wear the same T-shirt in the post-match race interview and on the podium. Taylor, a 26-year-old black woman, was shot dead by police in Louisville six months ago. It’s been 6 months since Breonna Taylor was murdered by policemen, in her own home. Still no justice has been served. We won’t stay silent. #JusticeForBreonnaTaylor pic.twitter.com/7zinVHiYcH — Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) September 13, 2020 × ALSO READ: 'The only regret I have...' - Neymar alleges racism after Alvaro Gonzalez bust-up in PSG vs Marseille While the FIA is a non-political organization, the matter was looked into with a conclusion that Hamilton will not be punished. However, FIA has launched a review of the current set of guidelines which included what racing drivers can wear during an event. Hamilton took to social media platform Instagram to declare that he will continue to use his standing as a six-time winner to promote his views. ✊ pic.twitter.com/OXXW8OIy9C — Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) September 13, 2020 × ALSO READ: Sebastian Vettel signs for Aston Martin from Ferrari for '2021 and beyond' “I want you to know that I won’t stop,” he wrote on Tuesday. “I won’t let up. I won’t give up on using this platform to shed light on what I believe is right. This is a journey for all of us to come together and challenge the world on every level of injustice, not only racial. We can help make this a better place for our kids and the future generations.” ✊ @LewisHamilton pic.twitter.com/zb0rsn5Tfl — Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) September 15, 2020 × Damon Hill, Britain’s 1996 world champion, accused the sport of having previously ignored the issue of race. He wrote on Twitter: “Such mixed message to Lewis Hamilton’s t-shirt podium message. “But F1 has always had its head in the sand over any issue that might make people think about anything other than F1. It has to make space for these messages if it is to be embraced by the wider world.” Meanwhile, Hamilton is now one win away from equaling Michael Schumacher’s record with 90th career triumph of his career in Mugello last week. He will look to equalize Schumacher’s record at the Sochi Autodrom in Russia on Sunday.

As FIA launches review of guidelines, Lewis Hamilton vows to keep protesting

Six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton took his tally of Formula One wins to 90 and the brink of Michael Schumacher’s record on Sunday, but he said it felt like he had just done three in a day.

The Briton’s latest victory, in a Tuscan Grand Prix that was twice red-flagged and re-started, left him one shy of the Ferrari great -- a record once held up as a milestone to withstand the test of time.

“Hectic,” said the 35-year-old Mercedes driver, when asked to sum up his afternoon at Ferrari-owned Mugello in central Italy.

“Such a roller-coaster ride, emotionally and physically.”

“It was all a bit of a daze. It was like three races in one day.”

Hamilton has won six races out of nine this season and, with a seventh title looking inevitable, the year has become a countdown to two of the greatest records in the sport -- both owned by Schumacher.

There are eight races remaining and it is inconceivable that Hamilton will not win at least one more. He has been averaging 10 a season for the past six years now.

Schumacher, who has been out of the public eye since suffering severe head injuries in a December 2013 ski accident, took his seventh title with Ferrari in 2004 and last win in 2006.

Hamilton can pull alongside at the next race in Sochi, Russia, in two weeks’ time.

“It just doesn’t seem real,” he said.

“It is ultimately a privilege to be in the position and have such a great team and a car to be able to deliver weekend in and weekend out. I am forever grateful to the people who continue to work hard. I’m just a link in the chain.

“Getting these wins is not easy when you have a great driver in Valtteri pushing you to the limit. I never thought that I would be here, that’s for sure.”

Six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton took his tally of Formula One wins to 90 and the brink of Michael Schumacher’s record on Sunday, but he said it felt like he had just done three in a day.

Six-times world champion Lewis Hamilton took his tally of Formula One wins to 90 and the brink of Michael Schumacher’s record on Sunday, but he said it felt like he had just done three in a day. The Briton’s latest victory, in a Tuscan Grand Prix that was twice red-flagged and re-started, left him one shy of the Ferrari great -- a record once held up as a milestone to withstand the test of time. “Hectic,” said the 35-year-old Mercedes driver, when asked to sum up his afternoon at Ferrari-owned Mugello in central Italy. “Such a roller-coaster ride, emotionally and physically.” “It was all a bit of a daze. It was like three races in one day.” Hamilton has won six races out of nine this season and, with a seventh title looking inevitable, the year has become a countdown to two of the greatest records in the sport -- both owned by Schumacher. There are eight races remaining and it is inconceivable that Hamilton will not win at least one more. He has been averaging 10 a season for the past six years now. Schumacher, who has been out of the public eye since suffering severe head injuries in a December 2013 ski accident, took his seventh title with Ferrari in 2004 and last win in 2006. Hamilton can pull alongside at the next race in Sochi, Russia, in two weeks’ time. “It just doesn’t seem real,” he said. “It is ultimately a privilege to be in the position and have such a great team and a car to be able to deliver weekend in and weekend out. I am forever grateful to the people who continue to work hard. I’m just a link in the chain. “Getting these wins is not easy when you have a great driver in Valtteri pushing you to the limit. I never thought that I would be here, that’s for sure.”

Hamilton on brink of Schumacher record after three-in-one win

Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;on Thursday urged people to continue discussing their mental health and said, based on his personal experience, that it was a strength and not a weakness for people to show their vulnerability.

The championship leader and six-time world champion said he experienced "difficult days" in his own life, explaining that this season's run of triple-header race weekends meant that he was often lonely and grateful for contact from his family.

"I think I'm managing," he told reporters at the Italian Grand Prix.

"I've got a great group of people around me. I think Covid's given me the time to focus on communication and improving that between family and getting a deeper relationship with my mum, getting a deeper relationship with my dad, my brother, my sister and those that I work with."

In a post on social media,&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said: "There are two sides to me. First, the one you see on TV -- the competitive, cut-throat, hungry racer in me that comes out when I close the visor.

"When the visor is down I come alive, all my fears, insecurities and doubts are cast aside and my focus kicks in and will not break until the job is done. It feels like I get to have the superpowers I always dreamed of having, but behind the wheel.

"Second, there's just me. Someone who is figuring life out, day by day, just like you."

"Like many of you, I'm just trying to be and do my best in everything. I also have a lot of difficult days….especially in the bubble that we're currently in.

"You get lonely, you miss your friends and family, and with back to back race weeks it means there's not much time for anything, but work.

"I guess what I'm trying to say is it's never a bad thing to ask for help if you need it or to tell somebody how you feel. Showing your vulnerable side doesn't make you weak. Instead, I like to think of it as a chance to become stronger."

Hamilton&nbsp;is only two wins short of equalling Michael Schumacher's record haul of 91 race wins as he heads towards his record-equalling seventh title.

He said he believed it was important that he was open and expressed himself.

"I think as competitors, it's not the first thing you think about doing, being open and expressing yourself, but I think it's very important, more important than what's happening here."

"We arrive -- and you're on TV for three days and it all looks pretty good, but the fact is you only see the tip of the iceberg. There's all the stuff that goes on in the background.

"So that's what I was trying to convey -- that's its ok to have the difficult days, they're the growing days."

Lewis Hamilton on Thursday urged people to continue discussing their mental health and said, based on his personal experience, that it was a strength and not a weakness for people to show their vulnerability.

Lewis Hamilton on Thursday urged people to continue discussing their mental health and said, based on his personal experience, that it was a strength and not a weakness for people to show their vulnerability. The championship leader and six-time world champion said he experienced "difficult days" in his own life, explaining that this season's run of triple-header race weekends meant that he was often lonely and grateful for contact from his family. "I think I'm managing," he told reporters at the Italian Grand Prix. "I've got a great group of people around me. I think Covid's given me the time to focus on communication and improving that between family and getting a deeper relationship with my mum, getting a deeper relationship with my dad, my brother, my sister and those that I work with." In a post on social media, Hamilton said: "There are two sides to me. First, the one you see on TV -- the competitive, cut-throat, hungry racer in me that comes out when I close the visor. "When the visor is down I come alive, all my fears, insecurities and doubts are cast aside and my focus kicks in and will not break until the job is done. It feels like I get to have the superpowers I always dreamed of having, but behind the wheel. "Second, there's just me. Someone who is figuring life out, day by day, just like you." "Like many of you, I'm just trying to be and do my best in everything. I also have a lot of difficult days….especially in the bubble that we're currently in. "You get lonely, you miss your friends and family, and with back to back race weeks it means there's not much time for anything, but work. "I guess what I'm trying to say is it's never a bad thing to ask for help if you need it or to tell somebody how you feel. Showing your vulnerable side doesn't make you weak. Instead, I like to think of it as a chance to become stronger." Hamilton is only two wins short of equalling Michael Schumacher's record haul of 91 race wins as he heads towards his record-equalling seventh title. He said he believed it was important that he was open and expressed himself. "I think as competitors, it's not the first thing you think about doing, being open and expressing yourself, but I think it's very important, more important than what's happening here." "We arrive -- and you're on TV for three days and it all looks pretty good, but the fact is you only see the tip of the iceberg. There's all the stuff that goes on in the background. "So that's what I was trying to convey -- that's its ok to have the difficult days, they're the growing days."

Hamilton admits to 'lonely, difficult days'

Lewis Hamilton will seek to break more records and a few hearts this weekend when he bids to win the Italian Grand Prix for Mercedes while Ferrari, without the 'tifosi' in attendance, hope only to avoid embarrassment at their traditional home event.

Championship leader and six-time world champion Hamilton has won five of this year's seven races and is now within two triumphs of seven-time champion Michael Schumacher's career total of 91 wins as he demolishes the German's statistical grip on Formula One's peaks.

This weekend, he will be favourite to claim his sixth victory in the old royal park, moving him one clear of the record five he now shares with Schumacher – and leaving him on 90 wins overall ahead of the Tuscany Grand Prix a week later, an event organised to celebrate Ferrari's 1,000th F1 race.

After their dismal and pointless performance at last Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix, it is a nightmare scenario.&nbsp;

Ferrari travelled back to Italy warning absent fans not to expect miracles.&nbsp;

Many believe Ferrari could be heading towards the team's worst-ever Monza performance in 70 years.&nbsp;

The 'scarlet scuderia' has won 19 of the 69 races to date, but will – if they repeat their Belgian showing – register a new first by failing to qualify a car in the top ten on the grid and in the race.

Monza is famous as the "temple of speed", a track where outright power and straight line speed are usually decisive.&nbsp;

"It is a circuit that is high power-sensitive," said Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto.

"So it may change the balance of competitiveness in qualifying and we all know how important it is to start ahead on the grid."

In the circumstances, departing four-time champion Sebastian Vettel has said it is "probably better" that there will be no fans at the behind-closed-doors event, his last race in red at Monza.

"Don't get me wrong, it will be sad not to have the fans in Monza – it is the first time," he said.

"For me, it would be so difficult to race in front of the Ferrari fans knowing it's my last time in red. So, in that regard, perhaps it is a little better this way."

Given his excellence this year, Hamilton will be expected to rule again, but he may face a serious challenge from Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, as well as a threat from Red Bull's Max Verstappen, the only other drivers to have won this season.

Bottas this week revealed that Hamilton has raised his game in qualifying this year to a level that he is struggling to match.&nbsp;

"Lewis has been really consistent, not making any mistakes in qualifying," said the Finn.

Hamilton has five wins from pole already in 2020 while his fastest lap last Saturday at Spa-Francorchamps prompted Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff to suggest he was "extra terrestrial".

"This year, I have had to make a couple of adjustments and with this car it seems to work quite well," said Hamilton.&nbsp;

"So now I am back to being able to produce qualifying laps that I was able to do before last year and on a more consistent basis."

Lewis Hamilton will seek to break more records and a few hearts this weekend when he bids to win the Italian Grand Prix for Mercedes while Ferrari, without the 'tifosi' in attendance, hope only to avoid embarrassment at their traditional home event.

Lewis Hamilton will seek to break more records and a few hearts this weekend when he bids to win the Italian Grand Prix for Mercedes while Ferrari, without the 'tifosi' in attendance, hope only to avoid embarrassment at their traditional home event. Championship leader and six-time world champion Hamilton has won five of this year's seven races and is now within two triumphs of seven-time champion Michael Schumacher's career total of 91 wins as he demolishes the German's statistical grip on Formula One's peaks. This weekend, he will be favourite to claim his sixth victory in the old royal park, moving him one clear of the record five he now shares with Schumacher – and leaving him on 90 wins overall ahead of the Tuscany Grand Prix a week later, an event organised to celebrate Ferrari's 1,000th F1 race. After their dismal and pointless performance at last Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix, it is a nightmare scenario. Ferrari travelled back to Italy warning absent fans not to expect miracles. Many believe Ferrari could be heading towards the team's worst-ever Monza performance in 70 years. The 'scarlet scuderia' has won 19 of the 69 races to date, but will – if they repeat their Belgian showing – register a new first by failing to qualify a car in the top ten on the grid and in the race. Monza is famous as the "temple of speed", a track where outright power and straight line speed are usually decisive. "It is a circuit that is high power-sensitive," said Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto. "So it may change the balance of competitiveness in qualifying and we all know how important it is to start ahead on the grid." In the circumstances, departing four-time champion Sebastian Vettel has said it is "probably better" that there will be no fans at the behind-closed-doors event, his last race in red at Monza. "Don't get me wrong, it will be sad not to have the fans in Monza – it is the first time," he said. "For me, it would be so difficult to race in front of the Ferrari fans knowing it's my last time in red. So, in that regard, perhaps it is a little better this way." Given his excellence this year, Hamilton will be expected to rule again, but he may face a serious challenge from Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, as well as a threat from Red Bull's Max Verstappen, the only other drivers to have won this season. Bottas this week revealed that Hamilton has raised his game in qualifying this year to a level that he is struggling to match. "Lewis has been really consistent, not making any mistakes in qualifying," said the Finn. Hamilton has five wins from pole already in 2020 while his fastest lap last Saturday at Spa-Francorchamps prompted Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff to suggest he was "extra terrestrial". "This year, I have had to make a couple of adjustments and with this car it seems to work quite well," said Hamilton. "So now I am back to being able to produce qualifying laps that I was able to do before last year and on a more consistent basis."

Hamilton aims to break Ferrari hearts at Monza's 'temple of speed'

Lewis Hamilton saluted actor Chadwick Boseman on the podium after a majestic 89th career win at the Belgian Grand Prix and then said he would prefer to have to fight harder for victories.

The championship leader and six-time Formula One champion made the crossed-forearms gesture from the "Black Panther" movies in respect for Hollywood star Boseman, who died on Friday, and to whose memory he had dedicated his 93rd pole position on Saturday.

Hamilton said he had been inspired by Boseman to produce another flawless performance.

"It feels great to finish on a high this weekend, particularly with Chad dying because he made everyone feel like a superhero."

Hamilton claimed his fifth win in seven outings this year to increase his lead in the title race to 47 points. His team-mate Valtteri Bottas was second.

"I know it is not necessarily what everyone wants to see – the two Mercedes at the front," said Hamilton.

He said he would prefer to have closer racing with multi-stop racing, instead of one-stop, as most drivers finished Sunday's race managing their tyres.

"Today was really all about tyres. Everyone doing this one-stop thing — it's really boring. At the end of the day, we are all managing out there, which is not racing. At the end, we are backing off, maybe it would have been fine but it was too big a risk today," he said.

"I really, really would like to have more of a fight, but that is not on me." &nbsp;

Hamilton said that the Mercedes domination was a product of the team's approach.&nbsp;

"No matter how much success we have, we have to keep our heads down," he said.&nbsp;

"It's an incredible mentality and I feel so privileged to be a part of this team."

He said that although his race appeared to be under control from lights to flag, it had ended tensely as he nursed his car to the finish on worn tyres.

"It was a bit of a struggle, but nonetheless it was ok," he said.&nbsp;

"I was a little nervous that we may have something like that which we had at Silverstone with the tyre – so I was nursing it to the end."

Hamilton won the British Grand Prix on three good wheels after suffering a last lap puncture.

He added that, on a personal level, he felt confident, fit and strong ahead of the races ahead, starting with two in Italy in successive weeks.

"I am 35 now, going towards 36, but I feel better than ever," he said. "That is a positive."

Bottas said he had been unable to catch Hamilton.

"Lewis played the start really well and I couldn't get the momentum. I think he was faultless today and yesterday, of course, he was quick. I did my best and I am glad there is another opportunity next weekend."

Lewis Hamilton saluted actor Chadwick Boseman on the podium after a majestic 89th career win at the Belgian Grand Prix and then said he would prefer to have to fight harder for victories.

Lewis Hamilton saluted actor Chadwick Boseman on the podium after a majestic 89th career win at the Belgian Grand Prix and then said he would prefer to have to fight harder for victories. The championship leader and six-time Formula One champion made the crossed-forearms gesture from the "Black Panther" movies in respect for Hollywood star Boseman, who died on Friday, and to whose memory he had dedicated his 93rd pole position on Saturday. Hamilton said he had been inspired by Boseman to produce another flawless performance. "It feels great to finish on a high this weekend, particularly with Chad dying because he made everyone feel like a superhero." Hamilton claimed his fifth win in seven outings this year to increase his lead in the title race to 47 points. His team-mate Valtteri Bottas was second. "I know it is not necessarily what everyone wants to see – the two Mercedes at the front," said Hamilton. He said he would prefer to have closer racing with multi-stop racing, instead of one-stop, as most drivers finished Sunday's race managing their tyres. "Today was really all about tyres. Everyone doing this one-stop thing — it's really boring. At the end of the day, we are all managing out there, which is not racing. At the end, we are backing off, maybe it would have been fine but it was too big a risk today," he said. "I really, really would like to have more of a fight, but that is not on me." Hamilton said that the Mercedes domination was a product of the team's approach. "No matter how much success we have, we have to keep our heads down," he said. "It's an incredible mentality and I feel so privileged to be a part of this team." He said that although his race appeared to be under control from lights to flag, it had ended tensely as he nursed his car to the finish on worn tyres. "It was a bit of a struggle, but nonetheless it was ok," he said. "I was a little nervous that we may have something like that which we had at Silverstone with the tyre – so I was nursing it to the end." Hamilton won the British Grand Prix on three good wheels after suffering a last lap puncture. He added that, on a personal level, he felt confident, fit and strong ahead of the races ahead, starting with two in Italy in successive weeks. "I am 35 now, going towards 36, but I feel better than ever," he said. "That is a positive." Bottas said he had been unable to catch Hamilton. "Lewis played the start really well and I couldn't get the momentum. I think he was faultless today and yesterday, of course, he was quick. I did my best and I am glad there is another opportunity next weekend."

Hamilton salutes Boseman and pleads for end to 'boring' racing

Lewis Hamilton stretched his lead in the drivers' world championship and closed to within two wins of Michael Schumacher's Formula One record of 91 on Sunday with a majestic, if ultimately tense, Belgian Grand Prix victory.

The series leader and six-time champion registered his 89th career win with another flawless drive to take his fourth Belgian triumph, finishing 8.448 seconds clear of his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas.

It was Hamilton's fifth win in seven races this year and extended his record run of points-scoring races to 40.

Max Verstappen came third for Red Bull, seven seconds further adrift, to claim his sixth podium finish in succession.

Hamilton, who had to nurse his car home on worn tyres, has 157 points in the title race, 47 clear of Verstappen. The 'black arrows' lead the constructors' championship with 264 points, well ahead of Red Bull on 158.

"It wasn't the easiest of races," said Hamilton. "It was a bit of a struggle, but nonetheless I think it was ok in the end."

At the British Grand Prix at the start of August, Hamilton had clung on to win after one of his tyres disintegrated.

"I was concerned that we'd have a scenario like Silverstone, but the tyre seemed to have quite a bit of rubber left on it at the finish."

Bottas admitted he could not match his team-mate's pace.

"The start was a good opportunity, but Lewis played it really well and I just couldn't catch him. In the same car, with Lewis driving a flawless race, it was really difficult."

Verstappen said he had a dull afternoon.&nbsp;

"It was pretty boring, not very interesting and not much to do," he said. "I ran out of tyre at the end so I was just stretching it out and saving the tyres."

Daniel Ricciardo produced the fastest lap on his final lap as he claimed fourth ahead of his Renault team-mate Esteban Ocon, and Alex Albon, in the second Red Bull.&nbsp;

Lando Norris was seventh in the sole McLaren.

Pierre Gasly finished eighth for Alpha Tauri ahead of the &nbsp;Racing Points of Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez. On a troubled weekend, last year's winner Charles Leclerc was 14th, one place behind outgoing Ferrari team-mate Sebastian Vettel.

 
On a cool dry day in the Ardennes, the race was preceded by drama and ceremony with Carlos Sainz's McLaren suffering an exhaust failure that ruled him out and then a minute's silence, in memory of French F2 racer Anthoine Hubert, and the now-familiar drivers' anti-racism demonstration before the national anthem.

Hamilton made a smooth start from his record 93rd pole position ahead of Bottas while Verstappen fought to defend third position against Ricciardo.

Bottas chased Hamilton in vain, the champion controlling his advantage with imperious speed in the early laps as they pulled clear of the rest.

"We have one push now?" asked Bottas.&nbsp;

"Yes, but we agreed not to use it against each other," replied Mercedes.

"I've never heard of that," replied the clearly miffed Finn, who had said on Saturday that he would attack his team-mate to keep alive his own title bid.

The safety car came out on lap 11 after &nbsp;a collision involving Alfa Romeo's Antonio Giovinazzi and George Russell of Williams. The Italian spun into the barriers in front of the Briton whose car was hit by an errant rear wheel as he took evasive action.

The damaged cars left debris strewn across the circuit, but the drivers walked away unhurt.&nbsp;

"I'm ok," said Russell on team radio. "Nowhere I could go, guys."

The leaders pitted immediately, Bottas only just returning ahead of Verstappen after a slow stop. Ferrari appeared unready when Leclerc pitted, another issue in a bleak weekend that saw their drivers bump wheels in a scrap for 12th.

After the re-start, Bottas closed to nine-tenths briefly, on lap 17, but Hamilton raised his pace and was gone.

Lewis Hamilton stretched his lead in the drivers' world championship and closed to within two wins of Michael Schumacher's Formula One record of 91 on Sunday with a majestic, if ultimately tense, Belgian Grand Prix victory.

Lewis Hamilton stretched his lead in the drivers' world championship and closed to within two wins of Michael Schumacher's Formula One record of 91 on Sunday with a majestic, if ultimately tense, Belgian Grand Prix victory. The series leader and six-time champion registered his 89th career win with another flawless drive to take his fourth Belgian triumph, finishing 8.448 seconds clear of his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas. It was Hamilton's fifth win in seven races this year and extended his record run of points-scoring races to 40. Max Verstappen came third for Red Bull, seven seconds further adrift, to claim his sixth podium finish in succession. Hamilton, who had to nurse his car home on worn tyres, has 157 points in the title race, 47 clear of Verstappen. The 'black arrows' lead the constructors' championship with 264 points, well ahead of Red Bull on 158. "It wasn't the easiest of races," said Hamilton. "It was a bit of a struggle, but nonetheless I think it was ok in the end." At the British Grand Prix at the start of August, Hamilton had clung on to win after one of his tyres disintegrated. "I was concerned that we'd have a scenario like Silverstone, but the tyre seemed to have quite a bit of rubber left on it at the finish." Bottas admitted he could not match his team-mate's pace. "The start was a good opportunity, but Lewis played it really well and I just couldn't catch him. In the same car, with Lewis driving a flawless race, it was really difficult." Verstappen said he had a dull afternoon. "It was pretty boring, not very interesting and not much to do," he said. "I ran out of tyre at the end so I was just stretching it out and saving the tyres." Daniel Ricciardo produced the fastest lap on his final lap as he claimed fourth ahead of his Renault team-mate Esteban Ocon, and Alex Albon, in the second Red Bull. Lando Norris was seventh in the sole McLaren. Pierre Gasly finished eighth for Alpha Tauri ahead of the Racing Points of Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez. On a troubled weekend, last year's winner Charles Leclerc was 14th, one place behind outgoing Ferrari team-mate Sebastian Vettel. On a cool dry day in the Ardennes, the race was preceded by drama and ceremony with Carlos Sainz's McLaren suffering an exhaust failure that ruled him out and then a minute's silence, in memory of French F2 racer Anthoine Hubert, and the now-familiar drivers' anti-racism demonstration before the national anthem. Hamilton made a smooth start from his record 93rd pole position ahead of Bottas while Verstappen fought to defend third position against Ricciardo. Bottas chased Hamilton in vain, the champion controlling his advantage with imperious speed in the early laps as they pulled clear of the rest. "We have one push now?" asked Bottas. "Yes, but we agreed not to use it against each other," replied Mercedes. "I've never heard of that," replied the clearly miffed Finn, who had said on Saturday that he would attack his team-mate to keep alive his own title bid. The safety car came out on lap 11 after a collision involving Alfa Romeo's Antonio Giovinazzi and George Russell of Williams. The Italian spun into the barriers in front of the Briton whose car was hit by an errant rear wheel as he took evasive action. The damaged cars left debris strewn across the circuit, but the drivers walked away unhurt. "I'm ok," said Russell on team radio. "Nowhere I could go, guys." The leaders pitted immediately, Bottas only just returning ahead of Verstappen after a slow stop. Ferrari appeared unready when Leclerc pitted, another issue in a bleak weekend that saw their drivers bump wheels in a scrap for 12th. After the re-start, Bottas closed to nine-tenths briefly, on lap 17, but Hamilton raised his pace and was gone.

Majestic Hamilton wins in Belgium to close in on Schumacher record

Lewis Hamilton will not boycott this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix in sympathy with American sports protests following the shooting of Jacob Blake in the United States, but said he felt unified with their cause.

The world championship leader and six-time champion told reporters via an official video news conference that he was impressed by the athletes taking action, which had led to the postponement of events.

"I stand unified with them and trying to do what I can over here (in Europe)," he explained.&nbsp;

"I don't really know how not doing the race...it will still go on, but I will speak to Formula One to see what else we can do to continue to raise awareness and continue to push."

A number of athletes in the United States led boycotts of sporting events this week after Blake - an unarmed, black man - was shot by a police officer in Kenosha, Wisconsin on Sunday.

Blake's shooting sparked a wave of protests across the world amid on-going activism against racism, police violence and racial injustice.

Hamilton added it was "incredible what many out there in the States are doing within their sports all the way down to the people that are hosting – commentators, for example.

"But that is America and I don't know really if me doing it here will have any affect. We're in Belgium. We're not in the United States."

The Wisconsin-based Milwaukee Bucks began the boycotts when they refused to play their NBA play-off on Wednesday, an action that was followed by several others including protests in baseball, soccer, basketball and tennis.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Hamilton added that it "such a mess over there (America)" and observed that "the president is just sitting there and not doing anything."

He said that "people are losing their lives on a daily basis due to racism."

Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari said it was important for the F1 drivers to continue with their pre-race protest ceremonies, during which most of them take a knee.

"One thing is to take action in public," he said.

"I think more importantly, it's what everyone is deciding or how everyone is acting or confronting it once the cameras are off.

"That's true for us, being in a spotlight in a certain amount during a weekend, but also valid for everyone else."

Lewis Hamilton will not boycott this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix in sympathy with American sports protests following the shooting of Jacob Blake in the United States, but said he felt unified with their cause.

Lewis Hamilton will not boycott this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix in sympathy with American sports protests following the shooting of Jacob Blake in the United States, but said he felt unified with their cause. The world championship leader and six-time champion told reporters via an official video news conference that he was impressed by the athletes taking action, which had led to the postponement of events. "I stand unified with them and trying to do what I can over here (in Europe)," he explained. "I don't really know how not doing the race...it will still go on, but I will speak to Formula One to see what else we can do to continue to raise awareness and continue to push." A number of athletes in the United States led boycotts of sporting events this week after Blake - an unarmed, black man - was shot by a police officer in Kenosha, Wisconsin on Sunday. Blake's shooting sparked a wave of protests across the world amid on-going activism against racism, police violence and racial injustice. Hamilton added it was "incredible what many out there in the States are doing within their sports all the way down to the people that are hosting – commentators, for example. "But that is America and I don't know really if me doing it here will have any affect. We're in Belgium. We're not in the United States." The Wisconsin-based Milwaukee Bucks began the boycotts when they refused to play their NBA play-off on Wednesday, an action that was followed by several others including protests in baseball, soccer, basketball and tennis. Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Hamilton added that it "such a mess over there (America)" and observed that "the president is just sitting there and not doing anything." He said that "people are losing their lives on a daily basis due to racism." Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari said it was important for the F1 drivers to continue with their pre-race protest ceremonies, during which most of them take a knee. "One thing is to take action in public," he said. "I think more importantly, it's what everyone is deciding or how everyone is acting or confronting it once the cameras are off. "That's true for us, being in a spotlight in a certain amount during a weekend, but also valid for everyone else."

Hamilton will not boycott Belgian Grand Prix

Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton won in Spain for the fourth year in a row on Sunday to celebrate a record 156th podium finish and stretch his already commanding lead to 37 points.

The victory from pole position on a sweltering afternoon at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya, in a race without spectators due to the pandemic, was the 88th of the Mercedes driver’s career, and one of the more straightforward.

The six-times champion lapped all but the top three in a race that offered few thrills other than for fans of tyre management.

“I was in a different zone — I didn’t even realise it was the last lap,” said Hamilton, who described the race as one of his best in terms of how he drove.

“I was just in a daze out there...I was ready to keep going,” he added, speaking of how he felt completely at one with the car.

Hamilton is now just three wins short of Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s unmatched 91, and the podium ended another of the German’s records that he had shared with the Briton since last Sunday at Silverstone.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, Hamilton’s closest challenger after six races and winner a week ago of the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix, finished runner-up but a massive 24.177 seconds behind.

Valtteri Bottas was third for Mercedes, having taken the fastest lap after a late stop for fresh tyres, in another big setback for the Finn.

Verstappen has now beaten Bottas in the last four races and been second to Hamilton in three of them. Hamilton has 132 points to Verstappen’s 95, with Bottas falling further behind on 89.

“The weakness for Valtteri today was the start. He caught up to Max but he couldn’t overtake as the soft tyres didn’t work as expected,” commented Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff.

<h3>WARNING FLAGS</h3>

Verstappen had lined up third on the grid but grabbed second at the start as Bottas was squeezed on both sides and dropped to fourth, taking back third place four laps later.

Canadian Lance Stroll took fourth place for Racing Point with Mexican team mate Sergio Perez ahead of him at the finish, on a one-stop strategy, but with a five-second penalty for ignoring blue warning flags.

Stroll had seized third at the start with an impressive surge past his team mate, who was returning from two weeks in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19.

“I saw a gap on the inside went for it, and it really set me up,” said the Canadian, whose team were again protested by Renault afterwards as at the previous four races. Stewards applied a reprimand, as before.

Racing Point have already been docked 15 points and fined 400,000 euros for a breach of the sporting regulations with a car that is a close copy of last year’s Mercedes but Renault are appealing for a heavier punishment.

Spaniard Carlos Sainz was sixth for McLaren and Sebastian Vettel seventh for Ferrari, after doing close to 40 laps on one set of soft tyres, with Red Bull’s Alexander Albon eighth for Red Bull.

AlphaTauri’s Pierre Gasly was ninth and Lando Norris took the final point for McLaren.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was the sole retirement of the afternoon, having spun off after an engine cut-out due to an electrical problem, possibly caused by a kerb.

The Monegasque got the car started again but headed straight to the pits and retired from last place.

Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton won in Spain for the fourth year in a row on Sunday to celebrate a record 156th podium finish and stretch his already commanding lead to 37 points.

Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton won in Spain for the fourth year in a row on Sunday to celebrate a record 156th podium finish and stretch his already commanding lead to 37 points. The victory from pole position on a sweltering afternoon at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya, in a race without spectators due to the pandemic, was the 88th of the Mercedes driver’s career, and one of the more straightforward. The six-times champion lapped all but the top three in a race that offered few thrills other than for fans of tyre management. “I was in a different zone — I didn’t even realise it was the last lap,” said Hamilton, who described the race as one of his best in terms of how he drove. “I was just in a daze out there...I was ready to keep going,” he added, speaking of how he felt completely at one with the car. Hamilton is now just three wins short of Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s unmatched 91, and the podium ended another of the German’s records that he had shared with the Briton since last Sunday at Silverstone. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, Hamilton’s closest challenger after six races and winner a week ago of the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix, finished runner-up but a massive 24.177 seconds behind. Valtteri Bottas was third for Mercedes, having taken the fastest lap after a late stop for fresh tyres, in another big setback for the Finn. Verstappen has now beaten Bottas in the last four races and been second to Hamilton in three of them. Hamilton has 132 points to Verstappen’s 95, with Bottas falling further behind on 89. “The weakness for Valtteri today was the start. He caught up to Max but he couldn’t overtake as the soft tyres didn’t work as expected,” commented Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. WARNING FLAGS Verstappen had lined up third on the grid but grabbed second at the start as Bottas was squeezed on both sides and dropped to fourth, taking back third place four laps later. Canadian Lance Stroll took fourth place for Racing Point with Mexican team mate Sergio Perez ahead of him at the finish, on a one-stop strategy, but with a five-second penalty for ignoring blue warning flags. Stroll had seized third at the start with an impressive surge past his team mate, who was returning from two weeks in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19. “I saw a gap on the inside went for it, and it really set me up,” said the Canadian, whose team were again protested by Renault afterwards as at the previous four races. Stewards applied a reprimand, as before. Racing Point have already been docked 15 points and fined 400,000 euros for a breach of the sporting regulations with a car that is a close copy of last year’s Mercedes but Renault are appealing for a heavier punishment. Spaniard Carlos Sainz was sixth for McLaren and Sebastian Vettel seventh for Ferrari, after doing close to 40 laps on one set of soft tyres, with Red Bull’s Alexander Albon eighth for Red Bull. AlphaTauri’s Pierre Gasly was ninth and Lando Norris took the final point for McLaren. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was the sole retirement of the afternoon, having spun off after an engine cut-out due to an electrical problem, possibly caused by a kerb. The Monegasque got the car started again but headed straight to the pits and retired from last place.

Dazed Hamilton takes dominant win in the Spanish heat

Valtteri Bottas set the pace ahead of his team-mate and championship leader Lewis Hamilton as Mercedes resumed normal service by topping the times in Friday’s opening Spanish Grand Prix practice.

The Finn clocked a best lap in one minute and 16.785 seconds to outpace the six-time champion by 0.039sec with last Sunday’s race victor Max Verstappen third for Red Bull, nine-tenths adrift of the fastest time.

The Dutchman had beaten both Mercedes men to claim the ninth win of his career in the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix in sweltering conditions at Silverstone.

But with the temperature hovering at 28 degrees on a perfect summer’s day at the Circuit de Catalunya there were no major heating or tyre issues for the ‘black arrows’ this time out.

Charles Leclerc finished fourth ahead of his Ferrari team-mate Sebastian Vettel, running in a new chassis, Romain Grosjean of Haas and Sergio Perez of Racing Point.

Mexican Perez was back in action after missing both Silverstone races due to coronavirus.

Alex Albon was eighth in the second Red Bull ahead of Kevin Magnussen in the second Haas and Lance Stroll in the second Racing Point.

The session was run in near-ideal conditions and delivered few incidents apart from complaints by Hamilton about his left-front tyre wearing rapidly and his team-mate’s radio communications reverting to a crackle.

Valtteri Bottas set the pace ahead of his team-mate and championship leader Lewis Hamilton as Mercedes resumed normal service by topping the times in Friday’s opening Spanish Grand Prix practice.

Valtteri Bottas set the pace ahead of his team-mate and championship leader Lewis Hamilton as Mercedes resumed normal service by topping the times in Friday’s opening Spanish Grand Prix practice. The Finn clocked a best lap in one minute and 16.785 seconds to outpace the six-time champion by 0.039sec with last Sunday’s race victor Max Verstappen third for Red Bull, nine-tenths adrift of the fastest time. The Dutchman had beaten both Mercedes men to claim the ninth win of his career in the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix in sweltering conditions at Silverstone. But with the temperature hovering at 28 degrees on a perfect summer’s day at the Circuit de Catalunya there were no major heating or tyre issues for the ‘black arrows’ this time out. Charles Leclerc finished fourth ahead of his Ferrari team-mate Sebastian Vettel, running in a new chassis, Romain Grosjean of Haas and Sergio Perez of Racing Point. Mexican Perez was back in action after missing both Silverstone races due to coronavirus. Alex Albon was eighth in the second Red Bull ahead of Kevin Magnussen in the second Haas and Lance Stroll in the second Racing Point. The session was run in near-ideal conditions and delivered few incidents apart from complaints by Hamilton about his left-front tyre wearing rapidly and his team-mate’s radio communications reverting to a crackle.

Bottas tops Hamilton as Mercedes return to form

Softer tyres and hotter temperatures will pose a fresh test for Lewis Hamilton at Silverstone on Sunday after the Formula One championship leader won last weekend’s British Grand Prix on three wheels and a flat.

Tyre supplier Pirelli had always planned a change of compounds for the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix, second of two at the circuit where the championship began in 1950, but there will be more scrutiny now.

Hamilton’s win after a last lap tyre failure will go down as one of his most dramatic and came after he completed more than three quarters of the race on a single set.

“One step softer is going to be a challenge for us all and no doubt will move us all to at least a two-stop,” the six-times world champion, now 30 points clear of team mate Valtteri Bottas, said last Sunday.

“Obviously our cars are a lot quicker this year, we’re using the same tyres as last year, they (Pirelli) weren’t able to develop a better tyre to deal with the forces for this season, so it’s going to be a serious challenge I think.”

Team boss Toto Wolff agreed: “The hotter conditions brought the field closer together last week and the softer tyres will mean more pit stops and more variability with strategy, so we can expect a good fight.”

Hamilton has won the last three races, out of four so far in this COVID-19 affected season, and will start as favourite again.

If he finishes on the podium the Briton will equal the Formula One record of 155 set by Ferrari great Michael Schumacher.

Another win would leave him just three short of Schumacher’s record 91.

Mercedes have won all four races in dominant fashion, with Bottas triumphant in the Austrian opener last month, and rivals recognise the champions are in a league of their own.

They would have had a one-two on Sunday had Bottas not suffered a tyre failure a lap before Hamilton and plunged from second to 11th.

“Maybe you find a tenth, or one-and-a-half, OK and we are a bit closer — but it’s not close enough,” said Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

“You have to be realistic. I mean you can dream, and you can hope, but I think it’s way more important to be realistic because that’s how you move forward,” added the Dutch driver, who finished second on Sunday.

Ferrari will be hoping young Monegasque Charles Leclerc can again get more out of the car than seemed possible after finishing third last weekend.

Nico Hulkenberg looks set for a second chance to start for Racing Point as stand-in for Mexican Sergio Perez, in quarantine after testing positive for the new coronavirus. The German was sidelined by a power unit problem last time.

Softer tyres and hotter temperatures will pose a fresh test for Lewis Hamilton at Silverstone on Sunday after the Formula One championship leader won last weekend’s British Grand Prix on three wheels and a flat.

Softer tyres and hotter temperatures will pose a fresh test for Lewis Hamilton at Silverstone on Sunday after the Formula One championship leader won last weekend’s British Grand Prix on three wheels and a flat. Tyre supplier Pirelli had always planned a change of compounds for the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix, second of two at the circuit where the championship began in 1950, but there will be more scrutiny now. Hamilton’s win after a last lap tyre failure will go down as one of his most dramatic and came after he completed more than three quarters of the race on a single set. “One step softer is going to be a challenge for us all and no doubt will move us all to at least a two-stop,” the six-times world champion, now 30 points clear of team mate Valtteri Bottas, said last Sunday. “Obviously our cars are a lot quicker this year, we’re using the same tyres as last year, they (Pirelli) weren’t able to develop a better tyre to deal with the forces for this season, so it’s going to be a serious challenge I think.” Team boss Toto Wolff agreed: “The hotter conditions brought the field closer together last week and the softer tyres will mean more pit stops and more variability with strategy, so we can expect a good fight.” Hamilton has won the last three races, out of four so far in this COVID-19 affected season, and will start as favourite again. If he finishes on the podium the Briton will equal the Formula One record of 155 set by Ferrari great Michael Schumacher. Another win would leave him just three short of Schumacher’s record 91. Mercedes have won all four races in dominant fashion, with Bottas triumphant in the Austrian opener last month, and rivals recognise the champions are in a league of their own. They would have had a one-two on Sunday had Bottas not suffered a tyre failure a lap before Hamilton and plunged from second to 11th. “Maybe you find a tenth, or one-and-a-half, OK and we are a bit closer — but it’s not close enough,” said Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. “You have to be realistic. I mean you can dream, and you can hope, but I think it’s way more important to be realistic because that’s how you move forward,” added the Dutch driver, who finished second on Sunday. Ferrari will be hoping young Monegasque Charles Leclerc can again get more out of the car than seemed possible after finishing third last weekend. Nico Hulkenberg looks set for a second chance to start for Racing Point as stand-in for Mexican Sergio Perez, in quarantine after testing positive for the new coronavirus. The German was sidelined by a power unit problem last time.

Softer tyres throw up a fresh challenge for Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton limped to a record seventh British Grand Prix victory with his heart in mouth and a prayer on his lips after a dramatic last-lap puncture turned his Mercedes into a three-wheeler on Sunday.

In an astonishing end to a race he had dominated from pole position, the six-times world champion nursed his stricken Mercedes across the line to stretch his Formula One world championship lead to 30 points.

“I have definitely never experienced anything like that on the last lap,” said Hamilton after inspecting his barely-attached front left tyre.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen finished second, but could have won had he not pitted for fresh tyres in a successful late bid to score an extra point for the fastest lap, assuming victory was out of reach.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was third, another surprise for a team struggling for performance.

Hamilton’s team mate and closest rival Valtteri Bottas failed to score after also suffering a late puncture and finishing 11th, despite a one-two finish for the pair having looked a nailed-on certainty until late in the race.

“Up until that last lap everything was relatively smooth sailing,” said Hamilton of a race that was already extraordinary for the absence of spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I heard that his (Bottas’s) tyre went and I was just looking at mine and everything seemed fine. The car was still turning no problem... Those last few laps I started to back off and then just down the straight it just deflated.

“That was definitely a heart in the mouth kind of feeling... I was just praying to get around and not be too slow. I nearly didn’t get around the last few corners. Thank God we did.”

The victory was the 87th of Hamilton’s F1 career — leaving him four short of Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s all-time record of 91 — and his third in a row. It was also probably his greatest escape.

Verstappen’s race engineer summed it up over the team radio: “He’s a lucky boy.”.

The Dutch driver said he was happy with second place and brushed aside talk of a missed win in a race with two safety car periods.

“I could also pick up a puncture and then you lose a lot more,” he said. It’s so easy to say afterwards we should have just continued. But who would have said Lewis would have got the puncture?

“I don’t regret anything. I think we made the right decision.”

Mercedes, chasing a seventh successive title double, have won all four races this season.

<h2>RICCIARDO FOURTH</h2>

Australian Daniel Ricciardo was fourth for Renault, ahead of future McLaren team mate Lando Norris, whose own team mate - Carlos Sainz - also had a puncture.

Frenchman Esteban Ocon ensured Renault’s double points finish in sixth, with compatriot Pierre Gasly seventh for AlphaTauri and British-based Thai Alexander Albon riding a rollercoaster of a race to eighth place.

Canadian Lance Stroll was ninth for Racing Point, and Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel took the final point.

The next round, the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix to mark Silverstone’s hosting of the first world championship race in 1950, is at the same circuit next weekend. But it will struggle to match Sunday’s sensation.

Only 19 of the 20 drivers started, with Racing Point stand-in Nico Hulkenberg failing to make it out of the garage due to power unit problems.

The German was replacing Mexican Sergio Perez, in quarantine after testing positive for the new coronavirus earlier in the week.All the drivers took part before the start in a stance against racism, with Hamilton one of 13 taking a knee as the other seven stood behind.

A World War Two Spitfire fighter plane flew overhead afterwards in a gesture of thanks for Britain’s National Health Service.

Lewis Hamilton limped to a record seventh British Grand Prix victory with his heart in mouth and a prayer on his lips after a dramatic last-lap puncture turned his Mercedes into a three-wheeler on Sunday.

Lewis Hamilton limped to a record seventh British Grand Prix victory with his heart in mouth and a prayer on his lips after a dramatic last-lap puncture turned his Mercedes into a three-wheeler on Sunday. In an astonishing end to a race he had dominated from pole position, the six-times world champion nursed his stricken Mercedes across the line to stretch his Formula One world championship lead to 30 points. “I have definitely never experienced anything like that on the last lap,” said Hamilton after inspecting his barely-attached front left tyre. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen finished second, but could have won had he not pitted for fresh tyres in a successful late bid to score an extra point for the fastest lap, assuming victory was out of reach. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was third, another surprise for a team struggling for performance. Hamilton’s team mate and closest rival Valtteri Bottas failed to score after also suffering a late puncture and finishing 11th, despite a one-two finish for the pair having looked a nailed-on certainty until late in the race. “Up until that last lap everything was relatively smooth sailing,” said Hamilton of a race that was already extraordinary for the absence of spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I heard that his (Bottas’s) tyre went and I was just looking at mine and everything seemed fine. The car was still turning no problem... Those last few laps I started to back off and then just down the straight it just deflated. “That was definitely a heart in the mouth kind of feeling... I was just praying to get around and not be too slow. I nearly didn’t get around the last few corners. Thank God we did.” The victory was the 87th of Hamilton’s F1 career — leaving him four short of Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s all-time record of 91 — and his third in a row. It was also probably his greatest escape. Verstappen’s race engineer summed it up over the team radio: “He’s a lucky boy.”. The Dutch driver said he was happy with second place and brushed aside talk of a missed win in a race with two safety car periods. “I could also pick up a puncture and then you lose a lot more,” he said. It’s so easy to say afterwards we should have just continued. But who would have said Lewis would have got the puncture? “I don’t regret anything. I think we made the right decision.” Mercedes, chasing a seventh successive title double, have won all four races this season. RICCIARDO FOURTH Australian Daniel Ricciardo was fourth for Renault, ahead of future McLaren team mate Lando Norris, whose own team mate - Carlos Sainz - also had a puncture. Frenchman Esteban Ocon ensured Renault’s double points finish in sixth, with compatriot Pierre Gasly seventh for AlphaTauri and British-based Thai Alexander Albon riding a rollercoaster of a race to eighth place. Canadian Lance Stroll was ninth for Racing Point, and Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel took the final point. The next round, the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix to mark Silverstone’s hosting of the first world championship race in 1950, is at the same circuit next weekend. But it will struggle to match Sunday’s sensation. Only 19 of the 20 drivers started, with Racing Point stand-in Nico Hulkenberg failing to make it out of the garage due to power unit problems. The German was replacing Mexican Sergio Perez, in quarantine after testing positive for the new coronavirus earlier in the week.All the drivers took part before the start in a stance against racism, with Hamilton one of 13 taking a knee as the other seven stood behind. A World War Two Spitfire fighter plane flew overhead afterwards in a gesture of thanks for Britain’s National Health Service.

Hamilton takes record seventh British GP win on three wheels

Fresh from two dominant triumphs, Lewis Hamilton will seek to complete an early-season hat-trick and extend his home wins record to seven without his usual impassioned supporters in "super weird" circumstances at this weekend's British Grand Prix.

The six-time world champion and current standings leader has always drawn energy from the big crowds that support him at Silverstone, but this year's event will be run behind closed doors in front of empty grandstands.

"The British Grand Prix is the best and that's particularly because of the fans –- thousands and thousands always turn up to create a great spectacle," said the Briton.

"So, it is going to be super weird to be there without them."

For Hamilton, that means no crowd-surfing celebrations and keeping his feet on the ground as he bids to add to his wins at the Styrian and Hungarian Grands Prix as the coronavirus-delayed 2020 season returns.

This Sunday's race will be the 71st British Grand Prix and 54th at Silverstone and is followed one week later by a race at the same venue to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the inaugural world championship event in 1950.

After his recent victories, and given his great record at Silverstone, Hamilton will start as favourite, but can expect a strong challenge from his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who won the season-opener in Austria.

Already the two 'black Arrows' drivers have demonstrated the clear supremacy of their unbeaten W11 cars, dubbed "the fastest F1 cars ever" by team chief Toto Wolff this week.

He said: "We will miss our fans at Silverstone –- but we know that they will be rooting for us from home so we are determined to show our gratitude by putting on a great show.

"These are the fastest F1 cars ever built. They have broken the track records at both Spielberg and Budapest and it will be thrilling to see them on the iconic Silverstone circuit."

<h2>- Reliability 'crucial' -</h2>

The high-speed track's demanding and fast corners are expected to suit the Mercedes cars, but Wolff said he is taking nothing for granted.

"We've had a good start to the season," he said. "We resolved the issues that troubled us on the first weekend, won three out of three races and scored a good amount of points, but they highlighted a crucial factor -- the importance of reliability in this shortened season.

"We're one of only two teams that have finished all the races with both cars this year and we know how quickly a DNF (did not finish) can make a points lead disappear."

Arriving at Silverstone, Hamilton leads Bottas by five points with Max Verstappen of Red Bull third, 30 points adrift, but hoping to close the gap.

The Racing Point team's base is only a few hundred metres from the circuit entrance and, after demonstrating their speed and potential in Austria and Hungary, they hope to be in a scrap with Red Bull to secure a podium finish before Renault lodge another expected protest at the integrity of their 'pink Mercedes' car.

Ferrari, the only team to have interrupted Mercedes' supremacy at Silverstone in recent years, when Sebastian Vettel triumphed in 2018, are likely to continue their struggle for competitive form after a lacklustre start to 2020.

Vettel, in his final season at Ferrari, has this year emerged as a close supporter of Hamilton in backing the sport's anti-racism stance and the wider Black Lives Matter movement, which has not seen clear and unambiguous backing from the drivers.

Hamilton called for more unity and leadership on the issue following a confused and muddled pre-race 'taking the knee' ceremony in Hungary.

McLaren's Lando Norris, 20, said this week that the drivers would react and he expected to see "a better structure and a better plan in place" than at previous weekends.

The Briton suggested that Formula One management would be allocating proper time for a ceremony prior to the national anthem.

Fresh from two dominant triumphs, Lewis Hamilton will seek to complete an early-season hat-trick and extend his home wins record to seven without his usual impassioned supporters in "super weird" circumstances at this weekend's British Grand Prix.

Fresh from two dominant triumphs, Lewis Hamilton will seek to complete an early-season hat-trick and extend his home wins record to seven without his usual impassioned supporters in "super weird" circumstances at this weekend's British Grand Prix. The six-time world champion and current standings leader has always drawn energy from the big crowds that support him at Silverstone, but this year's event will be run behind closed doors in front of empty grandstands. "The British Grand Prix is the best and that's particularly because of the fans –- thousands and thousands always turn up to create a great spectacle," said the Briton. "So, it is going to be super weird to be there without them." For Hamilton, that means no crowd-surfing celebrations and keeping his feet on the ground as he bids to add to his wins at the Styrian and Hungarian Grands Prix as the coronavirus-delayed 2020 season returns. This Sunday's race will be the 71st British Grand Prix and 54th at Silverstone and is followed one week later by a race at the same venue to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the inaugural world championship event in 1950. After his recent victories, and given his great record at Silverstone, Hamilton will start as favourite, but can expect a strong challenge from his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who won the season-opener in Austria. Already the two 'black Arrows' drivers have demonstrated the clear supremacy of their unbeaten W11 cars, dubbed "the fastest F1 cars ever" by team chief Toto Wolff this week. He said: "We will miss our fans at Silverstone –- but we know that they will be rooting for us from home so we are determined to show our gratitude by putting on a great show. "These are the fastest F1 cars ever built. They have broken the track records at both Spielberg and Budapest and it will be thrilling to see them on the iconic Silverstone circuit." - Reliability 'crucial' - The high-speed track's demanding and fast corners are expected to suit the Mercedes cars, but Wolff said he is taking nothing for granted. "We've had a good start to the season," he said. "We resolved the issues that troubled us on the first weekend, won three out of three races and scored a good amount of points, but they highlighted a crucial factor -- the importance of reliability in this shortened season. "We're one of only two teams that have finished all the races with both cars this year and we know how quickly a DNF (did not finish) can make a points lead disappear." Arriving at Silverstone, Hamilton leads Bottas by five points with Max Verstappen of Red Bull third, 30 points adrift, but hoping to close the gap. The Racing Point team's base is only a few hundred metres from the circuit entrance and, after demonstrating their speed and potential in Austria and Hungary, they hope to be in a scrap with Red Bull to secure a podium finish before Renault lodge another expected protest at the integrity of their 'pink Mercedes' car. Ferrari, the only team to have interrupted Mercedes' supremacy at Silverstone in recent years, when Sebastian Vettel triumphed in 2018, are likely to continue their struggle for competitive form after a lacklustre start to 2020. Vettel, in his final season at Ferrari, has this year emerged as a close supporter of Hamilton in backing the sport's anti-racism stance and the wider Black Lives Matter movement, which has not seen clear and unambiguous backing from the drivers. Hamilton called for more unity and leadership on the issue following a confused and muddled pre-race 'taking the knee' ceremony in Hungary. McLaren's Lando Norris, 20, said this week that the drivers would react and he expected to see "a better structure and a better plan in place" than at previous weekends. The Briton suggested that Formula One management would be allocating proper time for a ceremony prior to the national anthem.

Hamilton eyes 'super weird' seventh Silverstone triumph

Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton has been central to widespread criticism after the Englishman shared an anti-vaxxer video on photo-blogging platform Instagram, which has a staggering 18.3 million followers.&nbsp;However, Hamilton deleted the story soon and after deleting the post on his Instagram story, he wrote another message saying it was his fault that he didn’t read the caption attached to the video while adding he is not against vaccine and has immense respect for Gates.

Hamilton, who is a six-time Formula One chamoion, shared the video created by King Bach on his Instagram story twice but the stories have now disappeared from Hamilton’s Instagram where tech billionaire Bill Gates is being quizzed about the process of getting a vaccine to battle the dreaded coronavirus.

The caption that was attacked to the video, shared by Hamilton, read ‘I remember when I told my first lie’. However, that was the caption given by the original content maker and not by Hamilton.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-opens-empty-olympics-venues-up-for-public-use-316272" hreflang="en">Tokyo opens empty Olympics venues up for public use</a>

Gates, who is the founder of Microsoft, now spends most of his time and energy to his global health foundation while backing the South Korean company SK Bioscience.

In the video, Gates was being quizzed about potential side-effects of a coronavirus vaccine and the multi-billionaire businessman is seen rubbishing the baseless suggestions that he is seeking to embed tracking chips into the vaccine. 
Gates funder a whopping $3.6million to the company in May for the purpose of accelerating the development of a vaccine to combat COVID-19.

Earlier in a letter to South Korean president Moon Jae-In, Gates sounded confident that the company could churn out as many as 200 million vaccine kits by June 2021.

While many have supported vaccination, there are others who seem to oppose it. Hamilton’s decision to share the post, which look to have suggested that Gates was lying in the interview, has been slammed by the social media users.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-on-track-to-break-schumachers-record-at-ferrari-owned-mugello-314706" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton 'on-track' to break Schumacher's record at Ferrari-owned Mugello</a>

In the video, Gates said: 'No, there is no connection between any of these vaccines and any tracking type thing,' he said. 'I have no idea where this came from.'

He continues: 'Dr Fauci (America's top infectious disease official) and I are the two most mentioned. Some of these are deeply ironic. Our foundation is about reducing death and bringing equity to health.

'The idea that we get accused of creating chips, or the virus - I think we need to get the truth out there, and explain our values, and why we are willing to put billions towards accelerating the progress.

'It's a little unclear to me, but I hope this will die down as people get the facts.'

However, after deleting the post on his Instagram story, Hamilton wrote another message as he said it was his fault that he didn’t read the caption attached to the video while adding he is not against vaccine and has immense respect for Gates.

“Hi guys, I've noticed some comments on my earlier post around the coronavirus vaccine, and want to clarify my thoughts on it, as I understand why they might have been misinterpreted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Clarification from Lewis Hamilton after earlier social media posts <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://t.co/GsOInVLONP">pic.twitter.com/GsOInVLONP</a>
— Phillip Horton (@PHortonF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/PHortonF1/status/1287747994620694528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“Firstly, I hadn't actually seen the comment attached so that is totally my fault and I have a lot of respect for the charity work Bill Gates does.

“I also want to be clear that I'm not against a vaccine and no doubt it will be important in the fight against coronavirus and I'm hopeful for its development to help save lives.”

However, Hamilton admits that he does have some concerns over the reported side effects, and how the project of releasing a vaccine will be funding.

His message continued: “However, after watching the video, I felt it showed that there is still a lot of uncertainty about the side effects most importantly and how it is going to be funded.

“I may not always get my posting right, I'm only human but I'm learning as we go. Sending you positivity.”

Hamilton has been one of the most active voices amid the worldwide calls for social justice and an end to racism.

Meanwhile, after opening three rounds of Formula One 2020 season, Hamilton leads the driver standings before heading into Great Britain at Silverstone. 
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Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton has been central to widespread criticism after the Englishman shared an anti-vaxxer video on photo-blogging platform Instagram, which has a staggering 18.

Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton has been central to widespread criticism after the Englishman shared an anti-vaxxer video on photo-blogging platform Instagram, which has a staggering 18.3 million followers. However, Hamilton deleted the story soon and after deleting the post on his Instagram story, he wrote another message saying it was his fault that he didn’t read the caption attached to the video while adding he is not against vaccine and has immense respect for Gates. Hamilton, who is a six-time Formula One chamoion, shared the video created by King Bach on his Instagram story twice but the stories have now disappeared from Hamilton’s Instagram where tech billionaire Bill Gates is being quizzed about the process of getting a vaccine to battle the dreaded coronavirus. The caption that was attacked to the video, shared by Hamilton, read ‘I remember when I told my first lie’. However, that was the caption given by the original content maker and not by Hamilton. ALSO READ: Tokyo opens empty Olympics venues up for public use Gates, who is the founder of Microsoft, now spends most of his time and energy to his global health foundation while backing the South Korean company SK Bioscience. In the video, Gates was being quizzed about potential side-effects of a coronavirus vaccine and the multi-billionaire businessman is seen rubbishing the baseless suggestions that he is seeking to embed tracking chips into the vaccine. Gates funder a whopping $3.6million to the company in May for the purpose of accelerating the development of a vaccine to combat COVID-19. Earlier in a letter to South Korean president Moon Jae-In, Gates sounded confident that the company could churn out as many as 200 million vaccine kits by June 2021. While many have supported vaccination, there are others who seem to oppose it. Hamilton’s decision to share the post, which look to have suggested that Gates was lying in the interview, has been slammed by the social media users. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton 'on-track' to break Schumacher's record at Ferrari-owned Mugello In the video, Gates said: 'No, there is no connection between any of these vaccines and any tracking type thing,' he said. 'I have no idea where this came from.' He continues: 'Dr Fauci (America's top infectious disease official) and I are the two most mentioned. Some of these are deeply ironic. Our foundation is about reducing death and bringing equity to health. 'The idea that we get accused of creating chips, or the virus - I think we need to get the truth out there, and explain our values, and why we are willing to put billions towards accelerating the progress. 'It's a little unclear to me, but I hope this will die down as people get the facts.' However, after deleting the post on his Instagram story, Hamilton wrote another message as he said it was his fault that he didn’t read the caption attached to the video while adding he is not against vaccine and has immense respect for Gates. “Hi guys, I've noticed some comments on my earlier post around the coronavirus vaccine, and want to clarify my thoughts on it, as I understand why they might have been misinterpreted. Clarification from Lewis Hamilton after earlier social media posts #F1 pic.twitter.com/GsOInVLONP — Phillip Horton (@PHortonF1) July 27, 2020 × “Firstly, I hadn't actually seen the comment attached so that is totally my fault and I have a lot of respect for the charity work Bill Gates does. “I also want to be clear that I'm not against a vaccine and no doubt it will be important in the fight against coronavirus and I'm hopeful for its development to help save lives.” However, Hamilton admits that he does have some concerns over the reported side effects, and how the project of releasing a vaccine will be funding. His message continued: “However, after watching the video, I felt it showed that there is still a lot of uncertainty about the side effects most importantly and how it is going to be funded. “I may not always get my posting right, I'm only human but I'm learning as we go. Sending you positivity.” Hamilton has been one of the most active voices amid the worldwide calls for social justice and an end to racism. Meanwhile, after opening three rounds of Formula One 2020 season, Hamilton leads the driver standings before heading into Great Britain at Silverstone.

'Totally my fault...' - Lewis Hamilton denies he’s anti-vaccine following Instagram story backlash

Six-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton's early season form has been great and many wonder if he could match or break Michael Schumacher's record of winning 91 Grand Prix.

Six-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton's early season form has been great and many wonder if he could match or break Michael Schumacher's record of winning 91 Grand Prix. Many predict this record could be broken on Ferrari's home soil in Italy in September. Hamilton has shown absolute class in previous two outings which includes his win at Hungary Grand Prix on Sunday. The race on Sunday marked his 86th win in Formula One. 2020's Formula One season was delayed due to coronavirus and will witness four races in August, with two at Hamilton's home circuit Silverstone, one in Spain and then the Belgian Grand Prix – before moving to Italy for two races. Formula One's most successful racer Micheal Schumacher won five of his seven titles and gained 72 of his 91 victories with Ferrari. If Hamilton keeps winning, he could be chasing the record at Monza on September 6 and Ferrari-owned Mugello a week later. Hamilton's win in Hungary matched Schumacher's record of winning eight races at a single venue. Schumacher won eight French Grands Prix. The defending champion has never won more than five races in succession in the past and will have to maintain his momentum at Silverstone in the two versions of the British Grand Prix without any support from a crowd. "I love Silverstone but I've got to say that's something that's bugging me a little bit," he said on Sunday after being reminded that the British races would be run behind closed doors. "It's the highlight of the year, the support is insane," he said. "It grows every year and I get to interact with the fans differently on that weekend and it's such an honour and privilege to be able to perform well and win a Grand Prix in your home country. "It feels great to be out there once you're in the zone, but I do miss the energy they bring. There's nothing like it. I don't have a lot of years left and that's going to be one year that I miss all the fans. "But I do want them to stay safe and we are in that period of time where safety is everything. So, I hope I can perform well for them there because I know they will be watching." (Inputs from AFP)

Lewis Hamilton 'on-track' to break Schumacher's record at Ferrari-owned Mugello

A masterful Lewis Hamilton won the Hungarian Grand Prix in dominant style and for a record eighth time on Sunday to wrest the Formula One championship lead from Mercedes team mate Valtteri Bottas.

Max Verstappen took second for Red Bull, the Dutch youngster awarded 'drive of the day' after crashing on the way to the grid in early drama that had his mechanics scrambling to fix the damage before the start.

Bottas, now five points behind Hamilton after three races, finished a close third after battling back from a botched start off the front row.

Hamilton's 86th career victory, from his 90th pole position and collecting a bonus point at the end for fastest lap, left the six-times world champion five short of Michael Schumacher's all-time record of 91 wins.

The Briton also equalled Schumacher's record of winning a grand prix eight times, something the Ferrari great achieved in France between 1994 and 2006.

"Round one had multiple different punches that I wasn't perhaps ready for but I refocused and the last two have been fantastic," Hamilton, fourth in the opener won by Bottas, said of the season so far.

"This weekend, we've just been on point throughout so we need to try and keep this up."

Hamilton, winner of the Styrian Grand Prix in Austria the weekend before, now has two victories for the season and three in a row in Hungary, with the next two races on home soil at Silverstone.

Verstappen was amazed by his mechanics' performance in winning their own race against the clock, giving him a car to drive from seventh place on the grid and zero to hero.

"I thought I was not going to race, so to be second is like a victory for me," he said.

Canadian Lance Stroll finished fourth for Racing Point with Alex Albon fifth for Red Bull in another turn up for the team that appeared to be struggling on Saturday.

Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel was sixth, with Racing Point's Sergio Perez seventh and Australian Daniel Ricciardo eighth for Renault.

Denmark's Kevin Magnussen opened his Haas team's account for the season with ninth place and Carlos Sainz secured the final point for McLaren.

AlphaTauri's French driver Pierre Gasly was the only retirement of the race.

A masterful Lewis Hamilton won the Hungarian Grand Prix in dominant style and for a record eighth time on Sunday to wrest the Formula One championship lead from Mercedes team mate Valtteri Bottas.

A masterful Lewis Hamilton won the Hungarian Grand Prix in dominant style and for a record eighth time on Sunday to wrest the Formula One championship lead from Mercedes team mate Valtteri Bottas. Max Verstappen took second for Red Bull, the Dutch youngster awarded 'drive of the day' after crashing on the way to the grid in early drama that had his mechanics scrambling to fix the damage before the start. Bottas, now five points behind Hamilton after three races, finished a close third after battling back from a botched start off the front row. Hamilton's 86th career victory, from his 90th pole position and collecting a bonus point at the end for fastest lap, left the six-times world champion five short of Michael Schumacher's all-time record of 91 wins. The Briton also equalled Schumacher's record of winning a grand prix eight times, something the Ferrari great achieved in France between 1994 and 2006. "Round one had multiple different punches that I wasn't perhaps ready for but I refocused and the last two have been fantastic," Hamilton, fourth in the opener won by Bottas, said of the season so far. "This weekend, we've just been on point throughout so we need to try and keep this up." Hamilton, winner of the Styrian Grand Prix in Austria the weekend before, now has two victories for the season and three in a row in Hungary, with the next two races on home soil at Silverstone. Verstappen was amazed by his mechanics' performance in winning their own race against the clock, giving him a car to drive from seventh place on the grid and zero to hero. "I thought I was not going to race, so to be second is like a victory for me," he said. Canadian Lance Stroll finished fourth for Racing Point with Alex Albon fifth for Red Bull in another turn up for the team that appeared to be struggling on Saturday. Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel was sixth, with Racing Point's Sergio Perez seventh and Australian Daniel Ricciardo eighth for Renault. Denmark's Kevin Magnussen opened his Haas team's account for the season with ninth place and Carlos Sainz secured the final point for McLaren. AlphaTauri's French driver Pierre Gasly was the only retirement of the race.

Hamilton wins in Hungary to take championship lead

Lewis Hamilton broke the circuit lap record and drew level with Michael Schumacher for another feat on Saturday as he claimed a record-increasing 90th pole position of his career for Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix.

The six-time world champion clocked a stunning time of one minute and 13.447 seconds on his second run in final qualifying to finish just ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas as Mercedes reeled off their 65th front=row lockout.

It was Hamilton's second successive pole of the COVID-19 delayed season and his Schumacher-equalling seventh pole at the Hungaroring where on Sunday he seeks his eighth victory, potentially drawing level with another Schumacher achievement for wins on the same track.

Schumacher won eight times at the French Grand Prix.

"I have to pinch myself," said Hamilton. "It doesn't register. It's quite humbling because I work with an incredible bunch of people who do an amazing job here and back home.

"And Valtteri doesn't make it easy for me. It takes perfection to do laps like that so this is one of the things I enjoy most."

Bottas said he expected it to be close. "We seem to be on another level, pretty far ahead of the others. My laps were ok, but I couldn't go faster really."

Behind the two 'black arrows', the controversial 'pink Mercedes' of Racing Point were third and fourth with Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez ahead of a much-improved showing by four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc for Ferrari.

Max Verstappen was a disappointed seventh for Red Bull, Lando Norris eighth ahead of his McLaren team-mate Carlos Sainz with Pierre Gasly, in his 50th Grand Prix, 10th for Alpha Tauri.

Lewis Hamilton broke the circuit lap record and drew level with Michael Schumacher for another feat on Saturday as he claimed a record-increasing 90th pole position of his career for Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton broke the circuit lap record and drew level with Michael Schumacher for another feat on Saturday as he claimed a record-increasing 90th pole position of his career for Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix. The six-time world champion clocked a stunning time of one minute and 13.447 seconds on his second run in final qualifying to finish just ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas as Mercedes reeled off their 65th front=row lockout. It was Hamilton's second successive pole of the COVID-19 delayed season and his Schumacher-equalling seventh pole at the Hungaroring where on Sunday he seeks his eighth victory, potentially drawing level with another Schumacher achievement for wins on the same track. Schumacher won eight times at the French Grand Prix. "I have to pinch myself," said Hamilton. "It doesn't register. It's quite humbling because I work with an incredible bunch of people who do an amazing job here and back home. "And Valtteri doesn't make it easy for me. It takes perfection to do laps like that so this is one of the things I enjoy most." Bottas said he expected it to be close. "We seem to be on another level, pretty far ahead of the others. My laps were ok, but I couldn't go faster really." Behind the two 'black arrows', the controversial 'pink Mercedes' of Racing Point were third and fourth with Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez ahead of a much-improved showing by four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc for Ferrari. Max Verstappen was a disappointed seventh for Red Bull, Lando Norris eighth ahead of his McLaren team-mate Carlos Sainz with Pierre Gasly, in his 50th Grand Prix, 10th for Alpha Tauri.

Hamilton breaks records as Mercedes lock out front row

A win in the Hungarian Grand Prix would move Lewis Hamilton within five of Michael Schumacher’s record 91 Grand Prix wins while also tying the Formula One great’s record for victories at a single track. Hamilton was in his elements to win the Styrian GP in Austria last weekend and looks all set to secure an eight successive win at the Hungaroring on Sunday.

Schumacher currently holds the record of bagging most wins – eight – at a single venue – French GP – when it was staged in Magny-Cours. Schumacher’s first win there was in 1994 - when Hamilton was enjoying a junior karting career that would send him to F1. Schumacher’s last win there came in 2006.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hamilton-wants-racing-records-racial-justice-ahead-of-hungarian-gp-313636" hreflang="en">Hamilton wants racing records, racial justice ahead of Hungarian GP</a>

“Every time I’m reminded of the records Michael has, it’s just mind-blowing to me,” Hamilton said.&nbsp;

“How many wins, how many championships. Record after record. I’m constantly reminded of his greatness and of the success that he had.”

Hamilton’s first win at the Hungarian Grand Prix was in the year 2007, the year after Schumacher’s last win in France. Interestingly, Hamilton’s first win as a Mercedes driver was also in Hungary in the year 2013 – the year he replaced the retiring Schumacher at Mercedes.

“I’ve always loved it in Hungary. I don’t know why (but) there are tracks that we excel on,” the 35-year-old Hamilton said.

“Budapest and Montreal have been my strongest, particularly at the beginning of my career.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-raises-a-fist-after-his-first-win-of-the-season-312968" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton raises a fist after his first win of the season</a>

Whereas, Hamilton is now chasing Schumacher’s record of seven F1 championships, having won every year since 2014 except in 2016 when his former Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg bagged the top podium.&nbsp;

Hamilton looks almost untouchable as No. 1, as he showed with pole position last Saturday in the teeming rain in Austria. It was a record-extending 89th of his career — 21 more than Schumacher — and one of his best ever.

A win in the Hungarian Grand Prix would move Lewis Hamilton within five of Michael Schumacher’s record 91 Grand Prix wins while also tying the Formula One great’s record for victories at a single track.

A win in the Hungarian Grand Prix would move Lewis Hamilton within five of Michael Schumacher’s record 91 Grand Prix wins while also tying the Formula One great’s record for victories at a single track. Hamilton was in his elements to win the Styrian GP in Austria last weekend and looks all set to secure an eight successive win at the Hungaroring on Sunday. Schumacher currently holds the record of bagging most wins – eight – at a single venue – French GP – when it was staged in Magny-Cours. Schumacher’s first win there was in 1994 - when Hamilton was enjoying a junior karting career that would send him to F1. Schumacher’s last win there came in 2006. ALSO READ: Hamilton wants racing records, racial justice ahead of Hungarian GP “Every time I’m reminded of the records Michael has, it’s just mind-blowing to me,” Hamilton said. “How many wins, how many championships. Record after record. I’m constantly reminded of his greatness and of the success that he had.” Hamilton’s first win at the Hungarian Grand Prix was in the year 2007, the year after Schumacher’s last win in France. Interestingly, Hamilton’s first win as a Mercedes driver was also in Hungary in the year 2013 – the year he replaced the retiring Schumacher at Mercedes. “I’ve always loved it in Hungary. I don’t know why (but) there are tracks that we excel on,” the 35-year-old Hamilton said. “Budapest and Montreal have been my strongest, particularly at the beginning of my career.” ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton raises a fist after his first win of the season Whereas, Hamilton is now chasing Schumacher’s record of seven F1 championships, having won every year since 2014 except in 2016 when his former Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg bagged the top podium. Hamilton looks almost untouchable as No. 1, as he showed with pole position last Saturday in the teeming rain in Austria. It was a record-extending 89th of his career — 21 more than Schumacher — and one of his best ever.

Lewis Hamilton eyes Michael Schumacher's F1 track record with 8th win

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