Lewis Hamilton greets Michael Schumacher and thanks Mercedes after a record win | Racing news

NURBURGING (GERMANY): Lewis Hamilton full of praise in Michael Schumacher for leading the way in Formula One and grateful Mercedes for betting on a “young black man” following his victory in Sunday’s 91st Grand Prix.
Speaking at length at the virtual press conference after claiming the Eifel GP, his seventh victory of the season, the series’ runaway leader spoke of his admiration and respect for the seven-time German champion whose records he is chasing.
“That number 91 is so big and when he’s so far away, it’s hard for people to fully understand how difficult it was for him to get those 91 wins,” said six-time F1 champion Hamilton.
“Meet, weekend and weekend away, year after year, and stay fit and be so precise … I get it now, more than ever.
“What he accomplished in so many areas, pushing the limit in terms of the physical side, he really was a pioneer in being the fittest driver.”

Hamilton became a Mercedes-backed driver when he was 13 years old and embarked on his international karting career.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Mercedes for giving a young black man a chance when he was 13 and for supporting me all the time,” he said.
When he succeeded Schumacher in the Mercedes F1 team in 2013, Hamilton was already a world champion after winning his first title with Mclaren in 2008.
On Sunday, Schumacher’s 21-year-old son Mick gifted Hamilton with one of his father’s racing helmets. Hamilton was briefly speechless, but later explained that it was not the first in his personal collection.
“Actually, I already have one of Michael’s helmets,” he said. “One of the really special moments for me was in Abu Dhabi in 2012 when I went to Mercedes hospitality and met with Michael.

“We exchanged helmets and that was, for me, a moment that I will never forget. Being with someone who grew up watching on television and having the honor of exchanging shirts, or helmets … It is what we athletes do and it is the highest sign. of respect “.

“May your family honor me today, I am incredibly honored. Your son is a great and brilliant talent, a truly genuine human being.
“I’m going to have two special Michael helmets in my little living room.”