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      Lewis Hamilton has found his voice this year and stood up for what he believes… he’s the best UK sportsman ever

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      THERE was a moment this season that proved Lewis Hamilton is now bigger than Formula One itself.
      It was not his record-breaking 92nd win or this, his seventh world crown.

      This season Lewis Hamilton hasn’t been afraid to voice his opinionCredit: Getty – Pool

      In fact, it was back in March in Melbourne at a press conference.Drivers before him said the FIA were right to press ahead with the race, despite the coronavirus pandemic looming large.
      Not Hamilton. When asked why the race was on, he replied cryptically, “Cash is king”.
      And he added: “I am really very, very surprised that we are here.
      “It is shocking that we are all sitting in this room.”

      He was right and, as we now know, the race was cancelled following a positive test in the McLaren team.
      Hamilton called it. He stood up and gave his opinion when others had been too afraid to talk negatively against F1.
      He’d previously spoken about Donald Trump, environmental causes and racism. And he continues to do so.
      Whether you agree with his stances on racism, the environment, veganism or politics, it doesn’t matter.

      Hamilton celebrates becoming world champion for a record-equalling seventh timeCredit: Splash News
      What matters is he is not afraid to give his opinion.
      Over the past few years, he has found his voice and is using his platform as a seven-time F1 champion to speak out and educate those who follow him.
      When was the last time a sports star at the very top of their game — and with so much to lose — was confident enough to speak out on a subject without worrying about upsetting a sponsor?
      Over the years I have covered his races, I’ve seen the sulks and reported on them. I’ve also got to witness some sensational performances on track.
      But this season, it is his off-track work that has made me appreciate Hamilton as the UK’s best sportsman of all-time.
      People disagree. I know this because they tell me all the time and Hamilton now knows he will never enjoy the universal support of us Brits.

      Lewis Hamilton can lay claim to being the UK’s greatest ever sportsmanCredit: AFP

      The reasons? Maybe the accent, maybe the tax debate — for the record he does pay UK tax and is in the country’s top 5,000 payers — or maybe because people feel they cannot identify with an F1 driver.
      But like him or not, you have to appreciate the fact that he is willing to say exactly what he thinks.
      Yes, he’s damn good at what he does, but he also stands up for what he believes in. And that goes beyond sport. More

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      F1 Turkish Grand Prix LIVE RESULTS: Hamilton WINS seventh world title, Brit star LAPS Bottas – latest reaction

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON is world champion for a record seventh time after a stunning drive in Turkey.
      Hamilton LAPS Bottas after teammate spins on opening corner.
      Stroll starts on pole but fails to get on podium.
      1st Hamilton 2nd Perez 3rd Vettel
      Follow ALL of the latest reaction below…

      ‘I’M JUST GETTING STARTED’
      Hamilton is ready to go again…
      “There’s no end to what me and this team can do together. What a day. A lot to take in.
      “I feel like I’m only just getting started. I feel physically in great shape and mentally this year has been the hardest year for millions of people and it’s no different for us athletes.”

      LUCKY NUMBER SEVEN
      If you’re just joining us, Lewis Hamilton has made history.

      LECLERC TURNS AIR BLUE
      It wasn’t a day to remember for the Ferrari driver who handed a podium finish to teammate Sebastien Vettel by messing up three corners from the line.
      Leclerc blasted through team radio: “I did a s*** job. A s*** job.”
      Understandably, he’s calmed down now and although frustrated at his own performance has congratulated Hamilton on his triumph.

      And of course, a huge congratulations to @LewisHamilton for being a seven times World Champion. What an achievement!
      — Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) November 15, 2020

      HOW THE RACE WAS WON
      Instead of coasting home, Hamilton thumped on the accelerator and thumped the brake pedal as if his life depended on it, writes Ben Hunt.
      And in treacherous conditions too. He battled his way through the field, taking heart-in-the-mouth risks, to cross the line 31.6 seconds ahead of Sergio Perez in second place.
      There is an argument that he wins because he has the best car. At this race, with conditions a real leveller, the best driver won.
      It is as simple as that.
      Before the race, there were some worried faces as the dark clouds gathered over the Istanbul Park circuit and the heavens opened.
      The rain had caused havoc the previous day to result in an unlikely first pole position for Lance Stroll.
      But there was one man who looked an oasis of calm, despite what was at stake as Hamilton stuck to his usual pre-race routine.

      GROUP EFFORT
      The entire Mercedes team were going berserk as Hamilton crossed the line – and an emotional driver went to celebrate with them in the pits.

      IN CASE YOU’RE LATE TO THE PARTY…
      Lewis Hamilton clinched his record-equalling seventh world title by putting in a vintage performance to win the Turkish Grand Prix.
      It was win 94 in his glorious F1 career and yet another master class.
      With his only rival, Valtteri Bottas sinking like a stone after so many spins that he was probably left dizzy, Hamilton didn’t even need to complete this race.
      Hamilton said: “My whole life I’ve secretly dreamt as high as this.
      “I remember watching Michael winning those championships. We always hear just to get 1 or 2 or even 3 is so hard to get – 7 is just so unimaginable.
      “There’s no end to what me and this team can do together. What a day. A lot to take in.”

      THE CHAMP SPEAKS
      An emotional Hamilton has taken to his socials…

      7X Formula 1 World Champion. Wow. To everyone that has supported me along the way, this is for you. To my incredible family, where do I even start? I am eternally grateful for your unconditional love, sacrifices and support… https://t.co/Uwb34qzCx2
      — Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) November 15, 2020

      RAW EMOTION
      This is what it feels like to be a seven-time world champion…

      TEAM-MATE TRIBUTE
      Valtteri Bottas: “He deserves it, he was better than us on average and fully deserves it. I’ll try and beat him next year.”

      THE STATS
      Here it is, the comparison between 7-time world champions…

      DREAM BIG
      Lewis Hamilton talking to Mark Webber: “My whole life I’ve secretly dreamt as high as this.
      “I remember watching Michael winning those championships. We always hear just to get 1 or 2 or even 3 is so hard to get – 7 is just so unimaginable.
      “There’s no end to what me and this team can do together. What a day. A lot to take in.
      “I feel like I’m only just getting started. I feel physically in great shape and mentally this year has been the hardest year for millions of people and it’s no different for us athletes.”

      MORE FROM LEWIS
      “There was a point when Seb was pulling away from me but I just kept my head down and kept believing I would pick up pace at some stage and that’s what I did.
      “I couldn’t figure out what it was. I was checking my temperatures.
      “Seb pitted and I knew that wasn’t the right choice and stayed out.
      “I lost a world championship in the pit lane so I learned my lesson from 2007. I felt like I had it under control and deal with the rain if it dropped.”

      ‘DREAM THE IMPOSSIBLE’
      An emotional Hamilton: “I’m a bit lost for words. I think naturally I have to start with saying thank you to the team. The journey we’ve been on is monumental.
      “I want to say also a big thank you to team LH for sticking with me all these years. And to my family who dreamed of this when we were young and watching the grand prix. This is way beyond our dreams.
      “It’s so important for kids out there to see this and know that don’t listen to anybody who tells you you can’t achieve something. Dream the impossible and speak it into existence. You’ve got to work for it, chase it and never give up.”

      TOP 10
      Here’s how they finished after a brilliant race in Turkey.

      SEB’S BACK
      Vettel on the podium as well. How refreshing to see.

      HAMMER TIME
      Hamilton on team radio: “For all the kids out there who dream the impeccable, you can do it too just believe in yourself.”
      He sounds emotional, too, and why wouldn’t he be?

      HAMILTON WINS!
      Lewis Hamilton is a seven-time world champion.
      One of his best race wins of the season.
      Stunning driving from a stunning champion – one of Britain’s finest ever.

      LAP 57
      No, Hamilton overrules. He’s staying out.

      LAP 56
      Hamilton told that rain is expected to hit turn 8.
      And the Brit responds to say that these tyres won’t work if there’s rain.
      Mercedes are in the pit lane to get him an insurance stop.

      LAP 54
      A little bit of rain here would put a spanner in the works for Hamilton.
      Time for an insurance pit stop?

      LAP 53
      Rain possibly on the way? It will have to be quick to make a difference here.
      Hamilton from Perez, Leclerc in third, Vettel fourth, Sainz fifth.

      LAP 51
      Seven laps to go and it looks like Hamilton and Perez are taking these intermediate tyres all the way.
      Their tyres are basically slicks now with no grip left for the water.
      It there’s any more rain they might have a sticky final few laps.

      LAP 48
      Mercedes solve the problem by boxing Bottas for new tyres.
      His looked very worn.
      Hamilton is 19 seconds ahead of Perez in second now. That’s almost a full pit stop.

      LAP 46
      Hamilton on team radio says Bottas has blue flags, someone might want to tell him to get out of my way.
      Slightly amusing… but not for Bottas I’m sure.

      LAP 44
      Hamilton has a whole pitstop advantage now to Leclerc in third so is looking very good for the win here.
      He was frustrated for most of the afternoon and is now 16 seconds clear of second place Perez.
      What must Racing Point be thinking? They had a 1/2 on the cards and now might have to settle for one podium.

      Load more entries… More

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      Lewis Hamilton admits he dreamed of matching Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world titles

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON revealed he’s secretly dreamed about matching Michael Schumacher’s seven world titles.
      The Brit stormed to victory in the Turkish Grand Prix on Sunday to seal another driver’s championship in his glittering career.

      Lewis Hamilton won his seventh world title to match Michael Schumacher’s recordCredit: Getty Images

      It took him level with the great Schumacher in a record some thought could never be matched.
      An emotional Hamilton, 35, said: “My whole life I’ve secretly dreamt as high as this.
      “I remember watching Michael winning those championships. We always hear just to get 1 or 2 or even 3 is so hard to get – 7 is just so unimaginable.
      “I’m a bit lost for words. I think naturally I have to start with saying thank you to the team. The journey we’ve been on is monumental.

      “I want to say also a big thank you to team LH for sticking with me all these years. And to my family who dreamed of this when we were young and watching the grand prix. This is way beyond our dreams.
      “It’s so important for kids out there to see this and know that don’t listen to anybody who tells you you can’t achieve something. Dream the impossible and speak it into existence. You’ve got to work for it, chase it and never give up.”

      Lewis Hamilton was visibly emotional after the featCredit: Associated Press

      Michael Schumacher won seven world titles in his glittering careerCredit: Reuters

      Hamilton came from sixth place to win in Istanbul with a remarkable drive on Sunday.
      And he warned his rivals that he feels better than ever after his latest championship win.

      “There’s no end to what me and this team can do together. What a day. A lot to take in.
      “I feel like I’m only just getting started. I feel physically in great shape and mentally this year has been the hardest year for millions of people and it’s no different for us athletes.”

      Lewis Hamilton won in Istanbul on Sunday to win his seventh titleCredit: Reuters

      Lewis Hamilton admits he doesn’t know if he’ll be in F1 next year after winning Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix More

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      From Brazil drama in 2008 to Turkey 2020, how Lewis Hamilton equalled Michael Schumacher’s record seven F1 world titles

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON has done it.
      The perky kid from Stevenage, who could never be told he wasn’t good enough, is now standing atop the podium for all-time Formula One world titles.

      Lewis Hamilton took a stunning victory at Istanbul to secure the Drivers’ ChampionshipCredit: Getty – Pool

      The win equalled Michael Schumacher’s seven F1 titles recordCredit: AFP

      Alongside Michael Schumacher, the Brit now holds seven Drivers’ Championship crowns.
      It all started in dramatic circumstances with McLaren in Brazil, overtaking Timo Glock at the final corner to shock home hero Felipe Massa.
      Fast forward 12 years and five more titles, and Hamilton reigned supreme once again as he drove through the wet in Istanbul to secure a trademark victory.
      Here, SunSport recounts the seven titles that the 35-year-old calls his own.

      #1 – 2008
      Hamilton took his maiden F1 title in dramatic circumstances.
      The Brit passed Timo Glock on the final lap in Brazil to finish in fifth place and clinch the title by a point. Ferrari’s Felipe Massa breaks down in tears at missing out to the McLaren man.

      Lewis Hamilton celebrates his first crown with mentor Ron Dennis and brother NicolasCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      A fresh-faced Lewis with his first Championship trophyCredit: Reuters
      #2 – 2014
      Hamilton won his second title and Mercedes’ first of the new hybrid-turbo era, beating Nico Rosberg to it.
      Hamilton went into the final race with a 17-point lead but the season is denied a grandstand finish as Rosberg suffered reliability issues and Hamilton won in Abu Dhabi.

      A move to Mercedes was proven successful with the first of many titles in 2014Credit: PA:Press Association

      The Brit struck up a strong working relationship with Merc team principal Toto WolffCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      #3 – 2015
      A crushing win for Hamilton as he secured the title with three races to go. The Brit’s victory in the US GP stopped Rosberg’s challenge dead.
      However, the German did still win the remaining three races of the season in Mexico, Brazil and Abu Dhabi.

      Hamilton pulled off a second consecutive title in 2015Credit: PA:Press Association

      Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg would snatch the crown in the following year’s epic battleCredit: PA:Press Association
      #4 – 2017
      After being denied n 2016 by Rosberg, who subsequently retired, Hamilton joined Sebastian Vettel on four world titles the following year.
      He won it in Mexico, with two races to go as he traded wins with the German over the course of the season.

      With Rosberg out of the picture, Hamilton stormed to victory in 2017Credit: Reuters

      This triumph levelled Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel’s tallyCredit: PA:Press Association
      #5 – 2018
      Another crushing win for Hamilton, who finished the season with 11 victories. He wrapped the title up in Mexico and finished a whopping 88 points clear of second-placed Vettel.
      The defining moment came when Vettel crashed out of his home GP and Hamilton, who started 14th, won the race.

      Mexico was again the destination as Hamilton won again in 2018Credit: Getty Images – Getty

      Ferrari star Vettel put up a good fight in the pair’s race to a fifth crownCredit: AFP or licensors
      #6 – 2019
      A straightforward season for Hamilton as the early threat to his crown initially posed by Bottas quickly dropped away.
      Hamilton was unchallenged as he romped to the title as Ferrari’s engine advantage was stopped by the FIA, following an investigation that remained private.

      Hamilton’s domination of the British GP personified his title superiorityCredit: PA:Press Association

      Mercedes continued to lead the pack amid Ferrari’s challengeCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      #7 – 2020
      The coronavirus-affected season produced an incredibly unusual F1 season – but Hamilton took it all in his stride.
      Social justice issues became a focal point of the veteran’s persona and he beat Schumacher’s race victories record before levelling the German legend’s titles tally.

      Hamilton has become a powerful speaker off the track in 2020Credit: Getty Images – Getty

      Formula One awarded a Michael Schumacher race helmet after he matched, and later surpassed, the legend’s 92 race winsCredit: AFP

      Lewis Hamilton admits he doesn’t know if he’ll be in F1 next year after winning Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix More

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      Lewis Hamilton in tears as he wins 7th world title in Turkey to match Michael Schumacher record

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON sat in his Mercedes’ cockpit with his hands covering his face as fought back the tears.
      He’d just won a record-equalling seventh world style in typical style but was desperate not to show any weakness to his rivals.

      Lewis Hamilton celebrates with his trophy after victory in TurkeyCredit: Getty Images

      The Brit was in tears after winning his seventh world titleCredit: AFP

      Hamilton celebrates with Sebastian Vettel and Sergio PerezCredit: Getty Images

      Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on the podiumCredit: Reuters

      Victory number 94 came as he crossed the line a whopping 31.6 seconds ahead of Sergio Perez.
      Hamilton said: “My whole life I’ve secretly dreamt as high as this.
      “I remember watching Michael winning those championships. We always hear just to get 1 or 2 or even 3 is so hard to get – 7 is just so unimaginable.
      “There’s no end to what me and this team can do together. What a day. A lot to take in.

      “I feel like I’m only just getting started. I feel physically in great shape and mentally this year has been the hardest year for millions of people and it’s no different for us athletes.
      “I’m a bit lost for words. I think naturally I have to say thank you to the team. The journey we’ve been on is monumental.
      “I want to say also a big thank you to team LH for sticking with me all these years. And to my family who dreamed of this when we were young and watching the grand prix. This is way beyond our dreams.
      “It’s so important for kids out there to see this and know that don’t listen to anybody who tells you you can’t achieve something. Dream the impossible and speak it into existence. You’ve got to work for it, chase it and never give up.”

      Hamilton wipes away the tears of joyCredit: AFP

      Lewis Hamilton tosses the trophy in the air as Sebastian Vettel looks onCredit: Reuters

      Brit Hamilton equalled Michael Schumacher’s record of seven titlesCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Lewis Hamilton raises his fists in delight after a seventh world titleCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Only needing to ensure he finished ahead of his teammate, Valtteri Bottas, who had a stinker and was left dizzy after a number of spins, Hamilton could have played it safe.
      But if there is one thing we have learnt about the 35-year-old during his career is that he doesn’t do things the easy way.
      Instead of coasting home, he thumped on the accelerator and thumped the brake pedal like his life depended on it.
      There is an argument that he only wins races because he has the best car. But in these wet slippery conditions it is simple; it was the best driver that won.
      Before the race, there were some worried faces as the dark clouds gathered over the Istanbul Park circuit and the heavens opened.
      The rain had caused havoc the previous day to result in an unlikely first pole position for Lance Stroll.
      But there was one man who looked an oasis of calm, despite what was at stake as Hamilton stuck to his usual pre-race routine.

      The rain continued to fall and caused some spins on the way to the grid as Antonio Giovinazzi and George Russell both found the barriers before limping back to the start.
      As for the start itself, it was like these 1,000bhp cars were stuck in treacle as they sluggishly pulled away from the line.
      It was like being at your local rink watching people take to the ice for the first time, taking pigeon steps as they tried to get their balance.
      Max Verstappen, pent up having missed out on pole the previous day, barely moved forward as Hamilton quickly went from sixth to fourth.
      By contrast, Bottas was tagged by Esteban Ocon and sent into the first of many spins for the day.
      The Finn was powerless as he slid into a 360 degree spin that dropped him down to 18th.
      It was game over from Turn One on Lap one.

      Hamilton won his seventh world title on Sunday in TurkeyCredit: AP:Associated Press

      The Brit nursed his Mercedes home in the rain to win another world crownCredit: AP:Associated Press
      With Hamilton in fourth, he played out a thrilling duel with Sebastian Vettel over a handful of laps, as the German rolled back the years by finishing in the top three.
      When Bottas stopped for intermediate tyres at the end of lap seven, he had hauled himself back to 15th.
      But he soon started going backwards again as he spun again – so much for all that rally experience he did over last winter.
      Then it was Hamilton’s turn to have a nervy moment.
      He bailed out of an attempt to overtake Vettel on Lap 16 and ran wide, allowing Alex Albon to pass, dropping Hamilton down a place.
      Out in front, Stroll was being caught by Perez and Verstappen until the Dutchman proved a little too keen and sent into a terrifying spin at 200mph.

      Michael Schumacher won seven world titles during his own dominant careerCredit: AP:Associated Press

      The German dominated in the early 2000s in his FerrariCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Somehow, he managed to keep on the blackstuff and avoided contact with the barriers.
      Another two spins for Bottas dropped him even further back as Hamilton kept things clean, despite keeping up the pace.
      It was like when the TV cameras at The Open cut to the engraver writing the name of this year’s winner on the Claret Jug.
      No need for nervousness as Hamilton was handed an unexpected double boost.
      First, Vettel makes a slow pitstop before Albon spins, allowing the champ into third place.
      A pitstop for Stroll promoted Hamilton to second on lap 36. He was in P1 a lap later after overtaking Perez.

      Drivers started on the wet tyres after rain lashed down in IstanbulCredit: Getty Images

      Valtteri Bottas spun on the opening lap to all but end his chances of extending the world championshipCredit: Getty Images
      So much for taking it easy.
      As for Bottas, he was sent into another THREE SPINS, and with 12 laps to go there was the ultimate indignity, as Hamilton lapped his teammate.
      The Finn made life more difficult for the Brit as he refused to move off the racing line.
      Bottas, who trundled home in 14th place, was left wondering – like others before him – if he will ever get the better of his teammate.
      On being told he had four laps to go, the dead-pan Bottas replied: “I wish it was less.” And who could blame him?

      The threat of a rain shower on the final few laps nearly added another twist as Hamilton warned his team that the worn intermediate tyres would not work.
      But the rain stayed away and as he conducted his post-race interviews a beautiful rainbow arched its way across the paddock.
      Hamilton had conjured this win out of nothing, the pot of gold was a seventh title at the end of 14-year long rainbow. 

      The drivers take part in a message against racismCredit: Getty Images

      Lewis Hamilton admits he doesn’t know if he’ll be in F1 next year after winning Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix More

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      F1 Turkish Grand Prix: UK start time, live stream, TV channel and schedule for race TODAY

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON is world champion for a record seventh time after a stunning drive in Turkey.
      Hamilton LAPS Bottas after teammate spins on opening corner.
      Stroll starts on pole but fails to get on podium.
      1st Hamilton 2nd Perez 3rd Vettel
      Follow ALL of the latest reaction below…

      ‘I’M JUST GETTING STARTED’
      Hamilton is ready to go again…
      “There’s no end to what me and this team can do together. What a day. A lot to take in.
      “I feel like I’m only just getting started. I feel physically in great shape and mentally this year has been the hardest year for millions of people and it’s no different for us athletes.”

      LUCKY NUMBER SEVEN
      If you’re just joining us, Lewis Hamilton has made history.

      LECLERC TURNS AIR BLUE
      It wasn’t a day to remember for the Ferrari driver who handed a podium finish to teammate Sebastien Vettel by messing up three corners from the line.
      Leclerc blasted through team radio: “I did a s*** job. A s*** job.”
      Understandably, he’s calmed down now and although frustrated at his own performance has congratulated Hamilton on his triumph.

      And of course, a huge congratulations to @LewisHamilton for being a seven times World Champion. What an achievement!
      — Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) November 15, 2020

      HOW THE RACE WAS WON
      Instead of coasting home, Hamilton thumped on the accelerator and thumped the brake pedal as if his life depended on it, writes Ben Hunt.
      And in treacherous conditions too. He battled his way through the field, taking heart-in-the-mouth risks, to cross the line 31.6 seconds ahead of Sergio Perez in second place.
      There is an argument that he wins because he has the best car. At this race, with conditions a real leveller, the best driver won.
      It is as simple as that.
      Before the race, there were some worried faces as the dark clouds gathered over the Istanbul Park circuit and the heavens opened.
      The rain had caused havoc the previous day to result in an unlikely first pole position for Lance Stroll.
      But there was one man who looked an oasis of calm, despite what was at stake as Hamilton stuck to his usual pre-race routine.

      GROUP EFFORT
      The entire Mercedes team were going berserk as Hamilton crossed the line – and an emotional driver went to celebrate with them in the pits.

      IN CASE YOU’RE LATE TO THE PARTY…
      Lewis Hamilton clinched his record-equalling seventh world title by putting in a vintage performance to win the Turkish Grand Prix.
      It was win 94 in his glorious F1 career and yet another master class.
      With his only rival, Valtteri Bottas sinking like a stone after so many spins that he was probably left dizzy, Hamilton didn’t even need to complete this race.
      Hamilton said: “My whole life I’ve secretly dreamt as high as this.
      “I remember watching Michael winning those championships. We always hear just to get 1 or 2 or even 3 is so hard to get – 7 is just so unimaginable.
      “There’s no end to what me and this team can do together. What a day. A lot to take in.”

      THE CHAMP SPEAKS
      An emotional Hamilton has taken to his socials…

      7X Formula 1 World Champion. Wow. To everyone that has supported me along the way, this is for you. To my incredible family, where do I even start? I am eternally grateful for your unconditional love, sacrifices and support… https://t.co/Uwb34qzCx2
      — Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) November 15, 2020

      RAW EMOTION
      This is what it feels like to be a seven-time world champion…

      TEAM-MATE TRIBUTE
      Valtteri Bottas: “He deserves it, he was better than us on average and fully deserves it. I’ll try and beat him next year.”

      THE STATS
      Here it is, the comparison between 7-time world champions…

      DREAM BIG
      Lewis Hamilton talking to Mark Webber: “My whole life I’ve secretly dreamt as high as this.
      “I remember watching Michael winning those championships. We always hear just to get 1 or 2 or even 3 is so hard to get – 7 is just so unimaginable.
      “There’s no end to what me and this team can do together. What a day. A lot to take in.
      “I feel like I’m only just getting started. I feel physically in great shape and mentally this year has been the hardest year for millions of people and it’s no different for us athletes.”

      MORE FROM LEWIS
      “There was a point when Seb was pulling away from me but I just kept my head down and kept believing I would pick up pace at some stage and that’s what I did.
      “I couldn’t figure out what it was. I was checking my temperatures.
      “Seb pitted and I knew that wasn’t the right choice and stayed out.
      “I lost a world championship in the pit lane so I learned my lesson from 2007. I felt like I had it under control and deal with the rain if it dropped.”

      ‘DREAM THE IMPOSSIBLE’
      An emotional Hamilton: “I’m a bit lost for words. I think naturally I have to start with saying thank you to the team. The journey we’ve been on is monumental.
      “I want to say also a big thank you to team LH for sticking with me all these years. And to my family who dreamed of this when we were young and watching the grand prix. This is way beyond our dreams.
      “It’s so important for kids out there to see this and know that don’t listen to anybody who tells you you can’t achieve something. Dream the impossible and speak it into existence. You’ve got to work for it, chase it and never give up.”

      TOP 10
      Here’s how they finished after a brilliant race in Turkey.

      SEB’S BACK
      Vettel on the podium as well. How refreshing to see.

      HAMMER TIME
      Hamilton on team radio: “For all the kids out there who dream the impeccable, you can do it too just believe in yourself.”
      He sounds emotional, too, and why wouldn’t he be?

      HAMILTON WINS!
      Lewis Hamilton is a seven-time world champion.
      One of his best race wins of the season.
      Stunning driving from a stunning champion – one of Britain’s finest ever.

      LAP 57
      No, Hamilton overrules. He’s staying out.

      LAP 56
      Hamilton told that rain is expected to hit turn 8.
      And the Brit responds to say that these tyres won’t work if there’s rain.
      Mercedes are in the pit lane to get him an insurance stop.

      LAP 54
      A little bit of rain here would put a spanner in the works for Hamilton.
      Time for an insurance pit stop?

      LAP 53
      Rain possibly on the way? It will have to be quick to make a difference here.
      Hamilton from Perez, Leclerc in third, Vettel fourth, Sainz fifth.

      LAP 51
      Seven laps to go and it looks like Hamilton and Perez are taking these intermediate tyres all the way.
      Their tyres are basically slicks now with no grip left for the water.
      It there’s any more rain they might have a sticky final few laps.

      LAP 48
      Mercedes solve the problem by boxing Bottas for new tyres.
      His looked very worn.
      Hamilton is 19 seconds ahead of Perez in second now. That’s almost a full pit stop.

      LAP 46
      Hamilton on team radio says Bottas has blue flags, someone might want to tell him to get out of my way.
      Slightly amusing… but not for Bottas I’m sure.

      LAP 44
      Hamilton has a whole pitstop advantage now to Leclerc in third so is looking very good for the win here.
      He was frustrated for most of the afternoon and is now 16 seconds clear of second place Perez.
      What must Racing Point be thinking? They had a 1/2 on the cards and now might have to settle for one podium.

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      Where does Lewis Hamilton need to finish to win F1 World Championship in Turkey TODAY?

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      LEWIS HAMILTON is on the brink of winning a joint-record seventh F1 World Championship this weekend.
      The 35-year-old can tie legendary racer Michael Schumacher’s tally with a win at the Turkish Grand Prix on Sunday.

      Only Valtteri Bottas can catch Hamilton in this year’s championship race.

      Hamilton can only be caught by his Mercedes team-mate Bottas Credit: AFP
      But on Sunday, there are multiple ways in which Hamilton can secure himself a sweet victory over his Mercedes team-mate.
      Hamilton already leads Bottas by 85 points so if he outscores his Finnish rival this weekend, the race to title supremacy is finished.
      Even if Bottas manages to outscore his Brit rival, then there are still multiple ways in which Hamilton can get the job done.

      Hamilton can finish as low as 10th on Sunday in TurkeyCredit: 2020 Getty Images

      Hamilton is looking to win his seventh F1 World ChampionshipCredit: Splash News
      If Bottas wins the Turkish Grand Prix and gets the fastest lap, the title race will continue on to the Bahrain GP.
      But Hamilton will win it all on Sunday if he comes second and Bottas fails to nab the fastest lap.
      Should Bottas finish second and obtain the fastest lap, Hamilton only needs to finish fourth.
      Hamilton can also finish fifth if Bottas ends up in third place with the fastest lap.

      If Bottas ends the day in fourth place, Hamilton can finish in seventh or eighth WITH the fastest lap.
      Hamilton can also afford to slip to eighth, so long as Bottas ends his day in fifth position.
      Bottas finishing sixth with the fastest lap would allow Hamilton to finish ninth.
      And a lowly sixth place finish for Bottas would see Hamilton secure his seventh title as long as he finishes in 10th place or higher.

      That same pattern continues all the way down to a seventh or lower finish for Bottas, which would see Hamilton clinch the title wherever he ends up.
      Hamilton spoke about the potential achievement and noted that matching Schumacher would be something to be ‘incredibly proud’ of.
      “Matching an icon like Michael; I’d be incredibly proud of that,” Hamilton said.
      “But it’s more the message it sends to not just kids, but mostly kids, that you have to dream bigger than you think you can dream and don’t let anyone tell you you can’t go for that.” More

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      F1 Turkish Grand Prix qualifying LIVE RESULTS: Stroll ON POLE for first time, Hamilton only SIXTH – latest updates

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      LANCE STROLL will start the Turkish Grand Prix on pole after a superb drive on a sopping wet Instanbul circuit.
      The Mercedes drivers both struggled in the terrible conditions and Lewis Hamilton will start sixth on the grid after an action-packed qualifying session.
      TV/Live stream: Sky Sports F1/NOW TV
      Grid positions: 1st Stroll 2nd Verstappen 3rd Perez 4th Albon

      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…

      TURKISH DELIGHT

      F1 QUALIFYING RESULTS

      STROLL IN THE PARK

      MERCEDES PRAISE

      You won’t hear any excuses or clever quotes from us today.
      We were absolutely nowhere near pole.
      Today belongs to @RacingPointF1 and @lance_stroll 👏👏👏
      We’ll be down with a bottle of champagne later. You guys deserve it!
      — Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) November 14, 2020

      MAX POWER
      Max Verstappen has spoken of his disappointment at missing out on pole.
      He said: “Already in Q1 when we tried to go out on the inters we had no grip.
      “The track was a lot better in Q3 but for us the inters were horrible. 
      “The extreme tyres were good and was very comfortable. Not good.
      “I’m a bit disappointed, of course. In the race tomorrow we can do well but when you’re first all the time and then you come second it’s not what you want.”

      MORE FROM STROLL
      “I’m shocked. We didn’t look to competitive in final practice but I’m so happy right now, I really put that lap together at the end, I only had one lap to do it on the inters. 
      “I had the confidence in the car and I just nailed pretty much every corner, pieced it together nicely and such a nice way to bounce back after a few tough weeks.
      “To put it on pole is a special moment for me, one of the biggest of my career.”

      STROLL SPEAKS
      On pole for the first time, you can see the beaming smile even behind the face mask.
      “I can’t really put it into words right now, I’m shocked!
      “It’s one of the biggest highlights of my career for sure, we dream about these moments growing up and it’s pretty special!”

      SHOCK GRID
      What a qualifying session – if the race tomorrow is half as good, we’re in for a treat.

      SOME RESULT FOR STROLL
      He has been under fire of late for some poor results, but he pulled that out of the bag.

      AND NOW STROLL
      Unbelievable finish as Stroll takes pole position.
      Max Verstappen is in P2.
      Perez in P3.
      Hamilton is down in 6th place – Bottas in P9.

      PEREZ IS LOOKING GOOD FOR POLE HERE
      But Hamilton is down in 8th

      THREE MINUTES TO GO
      It is Perez, Verstappen, Raikkonen, Stroll, Ricciardo, Bottas, Albon, Hamilton, Giovinazzi, Ocon.

      SWAPPING FOR INTERMEDIATES
      With the track drying, there is a flurry of action in the pitlane as Merc and Red Bull pit their drivers for the quicker intermediate tyres.
      Still too damp for slicks.

      ALL DRIVERS ON WETS
      Apart from Ocon and Ricciardo. The two Renault boys are trying their luck on the intermediate tyres.

      Q3 IS GO
      Looks like we will get this session done after all. Results all pending investigations into the lap times set in Q1 under yellow flags.
      But, let’s say this is the shoot out for the top 10 nonetheless.
      Can Verstappen take pole ahead of Hamilton?

      FLAG IS OUT
      And those drivers eliminated are Gasly, Leclerc, Sainz, Vettel and Norris.
      The two Alfa Romeos of Raikkonen and Giovinazzi are through to the top 10.

      UNDER THREE MINUTES TO GO
      In the drop zone are – Sainz, Gasly, Vettel, Leclerc, Norris.

      RIDICULOUSNESS OUT OF THE WAY
      The flags have gone and qualifying resumes at full speed.
      Verstappen again goes quickest, Raikkonen in P2.
      But these times will now drop as the rain has stopped and the track starts clearing up.

      Q2 IS GO
      But under yellow flags in sector 2 as marshals removed Latifi’s beached Williams. That seems very strange and illogical.
      Not too sure what is going on in Race Control today.

      ELIMINATED FROM Q1
      Latifi, Grosjean, Russell, Kvyat, Magnussen.

      THAT WAS CLOSE FOR THE CHAMP
      And it might not be over yet.
      Kevin Magnussen is quizzing how the other drivers improved their times when there were yellow flags.
      He has a point.

      CHEQUERED FLAG IS OUT
      Verstappen sets the benchmark. A brave lap of 1:57.485 in these terrible conditions. He will be safe with that.
      Hamilton cut that fine as he aborted his final lap and ends the session in 14th place.

      IN THE DROP ZONE ARE
      Latifi, Russell, Gasly and Leclerc. Verstappen is only in P15.

      Q1 IS GO….AGAIN Pt2
      A little over 2 minutes to go. Grosjean is out but who are the other four drivers who will be eliminated at the first hurdle?

      RED FLAG
      Grosjean spins, is stuck in gravel and the session is stopped.
      This is turning into a real nightmare.
      Leclerc also has an off in the gravel but bumps his Ferrari forward to get back on track.

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