Formula 1 front-runners have praised Lewis Hamilton for his achievement in matching Michael Schumacher’s tally of 91 grand prix victories.
Hamilton drew level with Schumacher with his win at Formula 1’s Eifel Grand Prix, bringing to an end Schumacher’s 19-year spell as the driver alone with the most victories.
Sebastian Vettel, third on the all-time list with 53 victories, said: “I think I can’t respect his efforts enough.
“I think it has been a number in my head that I always thought would never be beaten or equalled. I think we can be quite certain he will exceed this number.”
Max Verstappen, who finished second to Hamilton at the Nürburgring, described it as “ an incredible achievement because I think 91 wins, everyone thought that was almost impossible to reach, right?
“To be there now, himself, it’s incredible and very impressive. And I’m pretty sure there will be some more victories coming his way – and probably also championships. So it’s just very impressive. And hard to beat.”
Daniel Ricciardo joined Hamilton and Verstappen on the podium and hailed the Briton’s commitment and consistency.
“Tip of the hat at the very least,” he said. “I don’t think that’s enough. 91 is like… I don’t know… it’s just… even 91 races, you’re talking nearly five years’ worth of races, four and a half. That gives perspective.
“How much success Lewis has now had. Obviously Michael as well. To do it, week-in, week-out as well, and year-on-year.
“His career now has been well over a decade in the sport and to keep coming back and to show that level of consistency at the front. That’s also not easy. I think us up here understand that.
“You can have a package and a car to do it, but it’s doing it every weekend when the lights go out. It’s easier said than done. Certainly big respect.”
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