Lewis Hamilton remained humble in his defeat and congratulated Max Verstappen after the Dutchman dethroned him as champion of the world.
Verstappen won his first Formula One World Championship with victory at Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The pair had gone into the race level on points but it was Hamilton who was leading the Yas Marina decider Until the last lap.
Hamilton accepted defeat when Verstappen defeated him as the champion of world.
Hamilton executed an incredible start from second on the grid to take the lead heading into turn one. He maintained his lead until Verstappen bypassed him on the final lap.
The circumstances surrounding Verstappen’s overtake were controversial as the safety car chaos that took place after Nicholas Latifi’s crash allowed the Dutchman to change his tyres.
Verstappen won the stop free of charge; Hamilton did not, much to Hamilton’s surprise and anguish. At Turn 5, Verstappen was able to pass Hamilton, who could not keep up with Hamilton’s breathing.
Hamilton lost Hamilton’s eight title with Verstappen’s win, but Hamilton still managed to be humbled by his defeat.
Speaking after the race, Hamilton said: ‘Firstly big congratulations to Max and his team. We did an incredible job, both my team and everyone at the factory. It was a great year.
Hamilton was overtaken by Verstappen on the final lap, and Verstappen held Hamilton off until the finish to take first place.
Verstappen won his 24th F1 World Championship title.
It’s been the hardest season. It’s been a proud journey and they are my heroes. It took everything we had, and it was never easy.
“Ofcourse I have felt great at the beginning and the end of the past two months in the car.
“But, if you’re honest, we’re still experiencing the pandemic. I wish everybody safety and a happy Christmas. We’ll be watching next year.
Verstappen almost couldn’t speak after his win in the championship. It’s crazy, he said. I’m not sure what to do. Thank you to the entire team as well as all of these men.
“It is a joy to work with them. Today was a lucky day. They know that I care about them. I hope to continue this relationship with them over the next 10-15 years.