Rookie Lewis Hamilton could not find words to describe his maiden grand prix victory on Sunday.
“I’m on another planet after this – I simply can’t find the words to describe what it feels like to win my first Formula 1 race. The team has done a fantastic job and I’m so happy to be part of the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes family" he said.
"I made an OK start off the line – nothing spectacular but managed to get a good exit out of the first corner and whilst mayhem was happening around me I was able to keep my cool and focus. Obviously I’m pleased that my good friend Robert is OK after his accident. It seemed like every time I opened up a bit of a gap the Safety Car came out and I had to start all over again. It was only a few laps from the end I realised that victory was within my grasp and I started noticing things like the fans cheering and when I crossed the finishing line it was amazing.
"I now have to stay focused and keep up the good work. It’s been an incredible start to my Formula 1 career so far but I know there is a tough season ahead of us. Finally thanks to the entire team at McLaren and Mercedes-Benz for all the hard work they have put into the car – it’s an absolute pleasure to drive and be part of such a winning combination.”
The McLaren driver also said he was dedicating this victory to his father.
McLaren head Ron Dennis said the whole team worked hard to achieve the optimum result.
"Hamilton had a mature and disciplined drive to claim his first Grand Prix win. His family should be justifiably proud of his achievement and whatever McLaren and Mercedes-Benz have contributed only compliments his talent and commitment."
Norbert Haug said Hamilton did the best job of all and kept cool throughout the difficult race.
“I’m on another planet after this – I simply can’t find the words to describe what it feels like to win my first Formula 1 race. The team has done a fantastic job and I’m so happy to be part of the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes family" he said.
"I made an OK start off the line – nothing spectacular but managed to get a good exit out of the first corner and whilst mayhem was happening around me I was able to keep my cool and focus. Obviously I’m pleased that my good friend Robert is OK after his accident. It seemed like every time I opened up a bit of a gap the Safety Car came out and I had to start all over again. It was only a few laps from the end I realised that victory was within my grasp and I started noticing things like the fans cheering and when I crossed the finishing line it was amazing.
"I now have to stay focused and keep up the good work. It’s been an incredible start to my Formula 1 career so far but I know there is a tough season ahead of us. Finally thanks to the entire team at McLaren and Mercedes-Benz for all the hard work they have put into the car – it’s an absolute pleasure to drive and be part of such a winning combination.”
The McLaren driver also said he was dedicating this victory to his father.
McLaren head Ron Dennis said the whole team worked hard to achieve the optimum result.
"Hamilton had a mature and disciplined drive to claim his first Grand Prix win. His family should be justifiably proud of his achievement and whatever McLaren and Mercedes-Benz have contributed only compliments his talent and commitment."
Norbert Haug said Hamilton did the best job of all and kept cool throughout the difficult race.