Lewis Hamilton described matching Michael Schumacher’s Formula 1 win tally as “an incredible honour” after he claimed victory at the Eifel Grand Prix.
Hamilton drew level with Schumacher by claiming a 91st career win at Sunday’s race at the Nürburgring.
Hamilton was presented with one of Schumacher’s race-worn helmets in parc ferme by son Mick, who currently leads the Formula 2 standings and is in contention for a 2021 Alfa Romeo seat.
“I don’t even know what to say,” said Hamilton.
“When you grow up watching someone, generally idolised them, in terms of the quality of driver they are but also what they’re able to continuously do year on year, race on race, week on week, with their team.
“I remember playing as Michael on a game called Grand Prix 2. Seeing his dominance… I don’t think anyone, especially me, thought I’d be anywhere near Michael in terms of records. It’s an incredible honour and it’s going to take some time to get used to.
“Honestly as I came into the pit lane that’s only when I realised, I hadn’t even computed it when I crossed the line.”
Hamilton went on to laud Schumacher’s ability and achievements across his career in Formula 1.
“Everyone knows he is an icon and a legend of the sport, what he achieved in so many areas, pushing the limit in terms of physicality, he was a pioneer in being the fittest driver,” he said.
“What he did at both teams he was at, particularly Ferrari, was just remarkable.
“Particularly for me that number is so big that when it is so far away it is hard for people to perhaps fully understand how hard it was to get those 91 wins, to deliver weekend in, weekend out, year on year on year, to stay so in shape and so precise.
“I understand that more than ever and I can only tell you it doesn’t get easier from your first win to your 91st it has been a long hard run. Michael is and will always be a legend of the sport.”
