Lewis Hamilton has received a host of congratulatory messages in the wake of claiming his fourth Formula 1 World Championship title at the Mexican Grand Prix, while his current rivals have also passed on their varied opinions on his success.
The man he beat to the title, Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel said: “He’s done a superb job all year round and deserves to win the title.”
Winner at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen said: “This year he has been the strongest.”
Teammate Daniel Ricciardo said “Lewis has been great. I don’t think they’ve always had the best car. I think most of the time yes, but they stole some victories from Ferrari and I would say held a bit better composure – and that’s Lewis’s experience as well.”
Hamilton’s teammate Valtteri Bottas said: “Coming into the team I didn’t know him at all. I didn’t know him as a guy I just knew him as a really good driver. This year has confirmed he’s a really good driver but he’s a really nice guy.”
“He’s a normal human being like the rest of us and we’ve had good respect from the beginning of the year. I always knew he had a lot of talent but I didn’t know he worked so hard. He definitely deserved the title this year,” added the Finn.
Here is what some of the others said in the aftermath of Mexico:
Fernando Alonso: “It was very easy this year, no opponents. Last year he had Nico until the last race, fighting every single race. Mercedes four races to the end constructors’ champion, Hamilton three races before the end drivers’ champion. Hopefully McLaren-Renault will change this easy time for them.”
Felipe Massa: “Lewis is definitely one of the best drivers in the history of Formula 1. You cannot really take him away or on a different level compared to Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna. He’s there.”
Sergio Perez: “Lewis is a legend and a great ambassador for the sport. I think he’s the best driver and I’m very happy for him because he deserves all the success.”
Carlos Sainz: “I think Lewis took a big step forward this year in terms of consistency. He rarely had an off weekend and that’s what makes a champion.”
Lance Stroll: “Big congratulations to Lewis, he is the king of Formula One, there is no doubt about it,” said the Williams youngster, one of Hamilton’s better friends on the grid. It is incredible what he has accomplished. He is a big inspiration for young drivers like me.”
One who was not keen to shower the new World Champion with praise was Kimi Raikkonen, who when asked for his opinion during the post-race press conference, replied: “I think you have to go and talk to him.
Then added, It’s good for him, a lot of wins, a lot of championships. Good, but what can I say?”
“You don’t care, right?,” quipped Verstappen seated beside him.
To which Raikkonen responded, “Can we be happy about it? In a way, yes. I’m happy for him, but inside you know….”