Brawn was nervous about Hamilton's approach in 2013

Si Valtteri Bottas won the US GP last weekend in Austin (Texas), the paddock of the F1 only had eyes for his teammate Lewis Hamilton who secured a 6th title and who could equal the record of Michael Schumacher and its 7 coronations.

Liberty Media Motor Sports Director Ross Brawn looked back on the feat of the Briton with whom he worked during his debut at Mercedes in 2013 when the former owner of Brawn GP still held the position of director.

“The best compliment I can pay Lewis is that he has found a unique way to be a great champion, he commented. I have to admit that I was a little nervous in 2013 when I started working with him because his approach as a professional driver was unusual. for me, the reference was Michael Schumacher, a man totally devoted to his quest for success and at the same time very protective of his private life and his family. Despite this, Lewis had a personal approach to his career and although he was completely professional, he preferred to have a lifestyle that was less reserved. »

“Lewis has always been comfortable operating in different circles, such as music or fashion, added Ross Brawn. It gave him the strength to develop his talent even further by staying in the best possible physical shape, an essential parameter in today's F1. At Mercedes, Lewis found the support he needed in an environment that was technically challenging but gave him the freedom he absolutely needed. »

Lewis Hamilton is only 8 wins away from Michael Schumacher's record. He could overtake the German as early as next year.

Discover the analysis of the US GP carried out by our special correspondents in issue 2441 of AUTOhebdo, available now in digital version on all platforms, and on newsstands this Wednesday.