Lewis Hamilton says his title victory was achieved in a "horrible way" after he fell to the back of the pack on the opening lap of the Mexican Grand Prix with a puncture, before recovering to finish a lowly ninth.
The Briton made contact with his title rival Sebastian Vettel, with both dropping down the order with unscheduled stops. Damage to the rear of Hamilton's car meant he was unable to mount a comeback in the same fashion as Vettel who finished fourth, but ninth was all he needed to claim a fourth title.
"It was a horrible way to do it, to be honest," said Hamilton. "But what can I do? I told you I wasn't going to go easy at Turn 1. And I don't think I was too aggressive or anything like that, I placed my car in the perfect position.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the replay, but I left a lot of space for the car behind. So, you know, still I rise, that's all I'm going to say."
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-120x86.webp)
Hamilton thanked his team after he became Briton's most successful F1 driver, surpassing Sir Jackie Stewart.
"I really I want to say a big thank you to all the guys back at Brixworth and Brackley. Guys, thank you so much for all your hard work.
"Winning the constructors' championship was already a huge feat, and helping me achieve this incredible accomplishment, I'm so grateful."
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-350x250.webp)
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