Lewis Hamilton Opens up on Why He Got Emotional After Winning Seventh F1 Championship

Time stood still when Lewis Hamilton got past the final few corners and crossed the line. It slowly dawned upon him that he had won his seventh F1 Drivers’ championship, equaling Michael Schumacher‘s record.

It was also one of those rare times that the British driver got sentimental. One could clearly hear him get emotional over the team radio. Naturally, all of the struggles he faced early in his career had culminated in him achieving the pinnacle of success.

Speaking in a talk show, Hamilton talked about what went on through his mind with three laps to go in the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix. He also shed light on the reason he became emotional after crossing the checkered flag.

Lewis Hamilton reflects on his thinking in the final few laps of the Turkish GP

Hamilton stated, “I have been racing for 27 years, I started when I was 8 years old. The dream was to get to Formula 1, and I grew up watching Michael Schumacher win all those races and titles and I’m finally there.”

The Turkish Grand Prix weekend did not get off to the right start for Hamilton at all. Struggling to find the grip, he qualified to start P6 in the race. What followed in the main race, however, was nothing short of exceptional driving from the defending champion.

“The last three laps, I knew that I was coming into the weekend and knew if I had won the race, I would be world champion. There are so many things that can go wrong.

“And I think as I was getting closer and closer to those last three laps realizing it may just be a reality. It’s really going to happen.”

A rare display of emotions from the seven-time World champion

Over many interviews, Hamilton has outlined his tough days from the time he started karting. While he was in the car, he also recollected the contribution his father had made to his racing career.

“I think just all the emotions from all those years. You know my Dad working at one time three or four jobs just to keep me racing and truly believing in me.

“I think all those came through and that’s the first time I have cried in there, in the car. So it was really emotional,” concluded Hamilton.

With the title now sewn up, all that remains for Hamilton is to negotiate a new contract with Mercedes. As for his fans, they will hope he signs the extension to continue winning and creating history.