Who thought someone would someday match Michael Schumacher‘s seven titles? But of course, there is always someone who barges in to do the impossible. And in this case, it was Lewis Hamilton. The 2020 Turkish Grand Prix, will forever remain one of the most iconic races in the history of F1. ‘Hambone’ started from P6 and raced to the top, clinching his seventh title- matching the Kaiser’s records.
Tracks like Turkey are tough to overtake, but Hamilton’s talent makes the impossible happen. The dictionary might empty itself to find more words to describe the Mercedes star’s might. Moreover, his habit of challenging himself, adds to the thrill of watching the legend in action. But, have you ever wondered what Lewis Hamilton’s racing preferences are?
Speaking on Performance Person on YouTube, Mr. Hammertime revealed his little secret. We know Lewis enjoys racing from the back of the grid rather than winning from the pole. But why? “Oh my God, it’s so boring when you’re honestly starting from first, leading a race all the way through. And it’s really boring compared to fighting from the back and having racing.” Only someone as confident and fierce as Hamilton could’ve said such a thing. He believes that a separate psyche works when he is chasing from the back. Lewis says he has this need to go ahead of the car in front of him and that’s the thrill that the 39-year-old finds most enthralling.
“It’s different when you have a car or cars ahead of you and you’re trying and there’s a track that you can overtake like Austin or Silverstone. You’re trying to discover, utilizing the tires, the winds, all these different things, and then you finally get someone in battle. That’s the best thing. That’s the rewarding experience as a driver.” Lewis Hamilton added. Surprisingly, he didn’t mention Turkey, where he overtook five drivers to match Schumacher’s record. But we get it—Lewis lives for the adrenaline of winning from the back. It’s more challenging and this is exactly what Hamilton keeps looking forward to.
Lewis Hamilton’s 2020 Turkish GP felt like a leaf taken out from one of the fairytales
Lewis Hamilton’s drive at the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix was nothing short of stunning. Starting from sixth on the grid, Hamilton overcame early mistakes and masterfully managed his intermediate tires to secure victory by over 25 seconds. This win not only marked his 10th victory of the season but also sealed his seventh drivers’ title, equaling Michael Schumacher’s legendary record. The race was unpredictable, with tricky wet conditions and Hamilton’s skill shining through, cementing his place in Formula 1 history.
The race began with Lance Stroll leading from pole, while Hamilton dropped back after an off-track moment. Verstappen spun battling Perez, but Hamilton’s decision to change tires just once paid off, allowing him to overtake Perez and claim the lead. As Hamilton crossed the finish line in Istanbul, he became a seven-time world champion, equaling the Red Baron himself.
This quick throwback highlights nothing but Hamilton’s contribution to F1’s legacy. As the champ is ready to start his next journey with Ferrari from 2025 onwards, all the fans can hope for are a few special moments like Silverstone 2024. But of course, an eighth world championship title would be the cherry on the cake, don’t you think? Share your take in the comments.