The statements from the Top 3 in Turkey: according to Pérez, one more lap with these tires and they would have exploded
Discover the reactions of the top 3 of this Turkish Grand Prix at the Istanbul Park track, marked by Lewis Hamilton's victory as he wins his seventh world championship title. Sergio Perez and Sebastian Vettel complete this podium.
(1st): Lewis Hamilton «I’ve lost words »
The Mercedes driver further cements his legendary status by claiming his seventh Formula 1 World Championship title. As usual, he thanks his team: « I’ve lost the words. A big thank you to the guys here and at the factory. The journey has been long and monumental, thanks to them, thanks to Team LH [his supporters] over all these years and to my family. »
Starting from sixth place on the grid, Hamilton made a comeback through the field to win on the Turkish track with a tire strategy allowing him to make one less pit stop than his competitors. « We knew it would be a difficult weekend, I was disappointed in qualifying. We improved. »
Hamilton concluded his interview with a message of hope and perseverance:
« Do not listen to those who tell you that you cannot achieve something. Dream the impossible. Speak it into existence. You must work for it and never give up! »
(2nd): Sergio Perez « one more lap with these tires and they would have exploded »
The Mexican driver who started from third place on the grid led a solid race in second position for most of the race.
« I told my team “one more lap with these tires and they would have exploded.” The team did a very good job with the strategy. The last lap was very intense, a beautiful fight with Charles. It was a chaotic race but a great result for us. »
(3rd): Sebastian Vettel « I seized my chance »
Very impressive comeback by the Ferrari driver who started eleventh on the grid this Sunday. He comments on his race: « I had a very good first lap, I seized my chance and found myself in 4th place. I was very happy with the rain tires, more difficult with the intermediates, I had to get used to them and found my rhythm at the end of the race. It was an intense and long race. »
Vettel steps onto the podium following his teammate’s mistake at the penultimate corner. He details this battle during the last meters of the race: « A very intense end to the race. It was surprising to take 3rd place. Charles was very close to Sergio, he locked up the wheels and there was an opportunity for me to overtake him. »
