Hamilton victorious and reprimanded: “My prayers have been answered”

The big beneficiary of the German Grand Prix at Hockenheim could have lost everything several hours after the finish. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes), left 14th and winner thanks to an efficient ascent and good management in the rain, had been summoned by the panel of stewards of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) late Sunday afternoon.

The FIA ​​officials scrutinized a sequence of the event where the Briton crossed the white line separating the entrance to the pits and the circuit. Behavior for which he was found responsible, but which does not result in any penalty, apart from a simple reprimand. Note that among the commissioners this weekend included the former pilot of F1 Mika Salo.

Go in? Stay out?! Confusion all round at Mercedes – but it's only a reprimand for @LewisHamilton so he keeps his win! #GermanGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/EQUd7F2ahC

- Formula 1 (@ F1) July 22, 2018

The FIA ​​document explains that the team as well as the driver admitted their fault and that there had been a “confusion within the team to determine whether to stay on the track or return to the pits”. Second reason put forward by officials, the context of this maneuver, “during the Safety Car period”. Finally, the return to the track was carried out without causing any danger and the change of direction was made “securely”.

Lewis Hamilton can therefore calmly enjoy this unexpected success, which replaces him at the head of the general standings for Drivers by 17 points ahead Sebastian Vettel. « His mistake directly benefits us. What a crazy day! I don't remember ever experiencing a race like this. » In his speech, confidence seems to be an important asset to maintain morale, after a disastrous qualification.

“The more adversity you face, the stronger you are. A mountain appeared before us, but you know, you just have to keep believing, and positive things will happen. Just keep fighting, give your best because at a certain point, things will turn to the right side », assures the Briton.

Win number 44 in car number 44 for @LewisHamilton! #GermanGP @F1 pic.twitter.com/vMIV7KVOsP

- Mercedes-AMG F1 (@ MercedesAMGF1) July 22, 2018

The four-time world champion has never hidden his belief in God, and his method of pre-race preparation has, according to him, helped him in his quest for victory. “It’s one of the most incredible days for me because… I prayed as usual before departure, and my prayers have truly been heard. It freaks me out a little more than normal. And to see this kind of biblical flood afterwards (the arrival)… ”

Lewis Hamilton also felt “a lot of negativity” during the meeting, targeting the hostile attitude of certain supporters after his breakdown on Saturday. “I sincerely think that the rain washed away all these negative vibes. It's a glorious day and that's why I said “love conquers all”. It couldn't be better and it's a day I will remember forever. »

Discover the analysis of the German Grand Prix carried out by our special correspondents in issue 2175 of AUTOhebdo, available from Monday evening in digital version on all platforms, and from Wednesday on newsstands.