“It is always necessary to believe in it”: reactions from the top 3 at Hockenheim

After an ideal start to the weekend for Sebastian Vettel, it’s ultimately Lewis Hamilton who claims victory on the German’s home turf. The much-anticipated rain played the spoiler, altering tire strategies. Despite its expected arrival, Mercedes fitted their number 44 driver with ultra-soft tires. This strategy proved successful as only a passing shower hit the circuit. Following Vettel’s crash on lap 52, forcing him to retire, Hamilton, who started in 14th position, takes the win and concludes a poorly started weekend in style.

The clouds threatened to rain on his parade

But there was a silver lining for @LewisHamilton in Germany 🏆#GermanGP 🇩🇪 #F1 pic.twitter.com/TFIxZNzPCI

— Formula 1 (@F1) 22 juillet /f1/actualite/22843-allemagne-qualifications-une-pole-hamilton-repousse-14e-scenario-ideal-pour-vettel-.html

First: Lewis Hamilton

Speaking to David Coulthard, the winner made sure to thank his team numerous times for their incredible work. “It was very difficult to start from so far back, you always have to believe,” said a delighted Lewis Hamilton, after experiencing a tough Saturday. His comeback propelled him into the top 6 by the 12th lap. “I never stopped attacking,” he stated about his strategy. Aided by race incidents, he nonetheless agreed with other drivers that the track conditions were difficult.

Now leading the drivers’ championship with a 17-point advantage over his rival, Hamilton leaves Hockenheim with a smile! He secures his second victory on this circuit, ten years after the first, which was achieved at the time with McLaren.

Second: Valtteri Bottas

Starting second in this Grand Prix, Bottas remains positive for the team. He is still disappointed not to have fully taken advantage of Vettel’s retirement: “Yes, as a driver, it’s always a victory that we aim for.” When David Coulthard questions him about the team order for Lewis Hamilton to maintain his first place, he states: “I had a chance to pass, but I was asked to hold my position, I accept.” Extended on Friday, the former Williams driver played the role of a good soldier and allows his team to overtake Ferrari in the constructors’ standings. Undoubtedly, Valtteri Bottas satisfied his employers.

BOTTAS: “As a driver, winning is what we’re looking for. When Seb went off I thought there was a good chance… but as a team, it’s a perfect race for us” #GermanGP 🇩🇪 #F1 pic.twitter.com/WXB4KaAdwT— Formula 1 (@F1) 22 juillet

Third: Kimi Räikkönen

It’s a scenario similar to Bottas’ that the 2007 world champion experienced this weekend. A team order during the race and no position change at the finish. The other Finnish driver on the grid finished third, disappointed with his result. He endured a few difficult moments during this less-than-ideal race, including a tricky overtake on a Sauber and struggling to find grip on the track.

RAIKKONEN: “It was a tricky race with the rain and it was slippery out there. Not an easy race but I’ll take it today” #GermanGP 🇩🇪 #F1 pic.twitter.com/rdFYF60eED — Formula 1 (@F1) July 22