By Lewis Hamilton ended his 56-race victory drought with an emotional win at Silverstone, bringing him to tears after an intense wet-dry race. This victory marks Hamilton’s record ninth win at a single Grand Prix and his 104th win in Formula 1. It was his first win since the Saudi Arabian GP in December 2021, just before the controversial finale in Abu Dhabi where Max Verstappen secured his first world title.
Hamilton, who has faced significant challenges and self-doubt in the 19 months since his last win, expressed his overwhelming emotions after the race. “It’s surreal. My heart is racing,” he told Sky Sports F1. “When I came across the line, something released in me that I have been holding onto for a long time. It was the most emotional end to a win I have ever experienced.”
Since 2022, Mercedes has struggled to stay at the top of the sport following new regulations, with George Russell securing the team’s only two victories during this period. Hamilton admitted to experiencing moments of doubt and questioning his ability to return to winning form. “There were so many thoughts and doubts in my mind along the way to the point, at times, I wanted to not continue,” he said. “To arrive and continue to get up and continue to try and finally succeed is the greatest feeling I can remember having.”
Hamilton’s win at Silverstone was celebrated by a crowd of 164,000 fans, with the driver acknowledging the importance of their support. “It’s so tough, I think for anyone, but the important thing is just how you continue to get up and you’ve got to continue to dig deep even when you feel like you’re at the bottom of the barrel,” he said. He credited his team and fans for their unwavering support during challenging times, emphasizing their role in his return to victory.
This win not only represents a significant personal achievement for Hamilton but also serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to overcome adversity.
