World Champion Lewis Hamilton described taking on another record as “pretty cool” as he overhauled Michael Schumacher’s tally of Formula 1 podium finishes.
Schumacher claimed 155 podiums during his career in the championship but at the Spanish Grand Prix that achievement was eclipsed by Hamilton, who recorded number 156 with victory.
It is another record for Hamilton, who already holds the accolade for most pole positions – on 92 – and most career points, on 3,563.
“I don’t really know what to say to those things,” said Hamilton.
“I think… yeah… it’s just very strange. All of us drivers here grew up watching Michael and one day being here.
“What is happening right now is far beyond what I dreamed as a kid. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity that I’m given every day.
“I think Michael was obviously an incredible athlete and driver, and so I just always feel really humbled and honoured to be mentioned in the same light as a driver like him and Ayrton [Senna] and [Juan Manuel] Fangio.
“It’s pretty cool. And I hope the Hamilton family are proud also.”
Hamilton now only three wins behind
Hamilton is 37 points clear of Max Verstappen in the standings and already the firm favourite for the title – which would put him level with Schumacher’s all-time record of seven.
Hamilton’s victory was the 88th of his Formula 1 career and puts him just three shy of Schumacher’s benchmark of 91.
Hamilton has already taken four victories this season and has at least another eight opportunities – and likely more given the remainder of the calendar is still to be finalised.
It means that Hamilton could equal Schumacher’s record as early as the Tuscan Grand Prix in four weeks’ time, and potentially overhaul it at the Russian Grand Prix.
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