Emotional Hamilton ‘can’t stop crying’ after British Grand Prix win

An emotional Lewis Hamilton admitted he was unable to “stop crying” after winning the British Grand Prix, ending his two-and-a-half-year winless streak.

Hamilton won the race under the chequered flag at Silverstone ahead of Max Verstappen to claim his 104th career F1 victory.

The Briton started from the front row of the grid alongside team-mate and pole-sitter George Russell, who eventually retired with a water pressure problem.

Mercedes moved Hamilton into the lead after recalling him a lap ahead of Lando Norris as the track changed from wet to dry.

From there, Hamilton held off an in-form Verstappen to claim his ninth home win, another record for most victories by a driver at one circuit.

“I can’t stop crying,” Hamilton said. “Since 2021, every day I get up and try to fight, train, focus on the task and work as hard as I can with this incredible team.

“This is my last race here at the British Grand Prix with his team, so I wanted to win for them so much, because I love them. I really appreciate all the hard work they have put in over the years.

“I will be forever grateful to everyone on this team, everyone who works at Mercedes and all our partners, and all our incredible fans. I could see you lap by lap as I arrived.

“There’s nothing nicer than finishing in front here.”

Hamilton questions F1’s potential amid crisis

Hamilton’s win drought comes amid a slump for Mercedes, who have largely struggled for performance under current regulations.

Hamilton admitted there had been times over the past two years when he doubted he could recapture his race-winning form.

“I think the important thing is to keep getting back up, to keep digging deep, even when you feel like you’re at rock bottom,” Hamilton said.

“There were definitely days between 2021 and now where I didn’t feel like I was good enough or couldn’t get back to where I am today.

“But most importantly, I was surrounded by great people who continued to support me. My team, every time I showed up and saw them making an effort, they really encouraged me to do the same.

“So a big thank you to everyone at the factory and everyone here. I love you guys.”