Lewis Hamilton described matching Michael Schumacher as an “incredible honour” after claiming his 91st Formula 1 win at the Eifel Grand Prix.
The Mercedes driver capitalised on a mistake by Valtteri Bottas to take the lead, and would command the race from that point after Bottas retired, to match the record Schumacher set back at the 2006 Chinese Grand Prix.
To commemorate his achievement, Michael’s son Mick, himself seemingly set for F1 next season, was on hand to award Hamilton one of the German’s famous red helmets from his own days at Mercedes.
“I’m so honoured. I really appreciate that,” Hamilton said as he shook hands with Schumacher Jr.
As the record came into view, Lewis admitted he wasn’t sure how he’d feel when the moment came, but there was noticeable emotion as he spoke about his accomplishment.
“I don’t even know what to say,” he began. “When you grow up watching someone and idolising them in terms of the quality of the driver they are and what they are able to continuously do year on year, race on race, week on week.
“I remember playing as Michael on a game called ‘Grand Prix 2’ I think it was! But just seeing his dominance for so long, I don’t think anyone, especially me, would imagine I’d be anywhere near Michael in terms of records.
“So it’s an incredible honour and it will take some time to get used to it.”
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After being pushed relatively hard by Max Verstappen in the closing laps, Hamilton also admitted the moment had slightly passed him by when he took the chequered flag.
“Honestly, when I came into the pit lane, it is only then I realised that I had equalled the record. I hadn’t even computed it when I crossed the line,” he claimed.
“I have got to give credit to this incredible team. Everyone is continuing to push behind me and give it their everything. A big, big thank you and huge respect to Michael as well.”
The win also saw Hamilton take a giant step towards equalling Schumacher as a seven-time world champion, as he now sits 69 points clear of Bottas with six races to go.
