Lewis Hamilton claimed his 100th Formula One win (Yuri Kochetkov/Pool Photo via AP) (AP)
Lewis Hamilton hailed his 100th victory as a “magical moment” following another extraordinary afternoon of drama at Sunday’s Russian Grand Prix
Lando Norris, 21, looked set to knock Hamilton off his perch as the youngest Briton to win a Formula One race after a composed and mature drive at Sochi’s Olympic Park.
But the McLaren star was cruelly denied his first triumph when the arrival of rain with just seven laps remaining turned the race on its head.
Norris stayed out on slick rubber, but the gamble backfired. Hamilton stopped for wet tires, and crossed the line 53 seconds clear of rival Max Verstappen to bring up his landmark win, 14 years and 108 days after his first triumph in Montreal Canada in just his sixth race.
“It has taken a long time to get to 100 and I wasn’t even sure if it would come,” said 36-year-old Hamilton.
“It is a magical moment. I could only have dreamed of still being here, to have this opportunity to win these races, and to drive with such phenomenal talents this late on in my career.
“It is a magical moment. I am so proud of everything we have done with Mercedes” saidLewis Hamilton
“I am so proud of everything we have done with Mercedes, on and off the track, and this is a special moment for everyone that has been part of it.
“My dad called me last night and he has always been that one to reassure me and to continue to support me. I feel incredibly grateful for the amazing support that I have had.”
Hamilton’s magnificent century of wins takes him two points clear of Verstappen in the title race with seven rounds to go.
