Lewis Hamilton news: The buzz around F1’s return and the United States Grand Prix
After a few weeks off, Formula 1 is back on our screens this weekend with the highly-anticipated United States Grand Prix.
The spotlight is firmly on the title battle, as Red Bull Racing have been winless since June, while McLaren have surged ahead in the Constructors’ Championship.
Lando Norris is also hot on the heels of world champion Max Verstappen in the Drivers’ standings, adding to the excitement.
With all this talk, Sports News Blitz’s Noah Ngcobo has delved into the significance of the US Grand Prix - putting a spotlight on the top-performing driver in the history of this Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton.
Storied history
This event has a storied history, dating back to 1908, and has taken place at various locations.
The most recognised venue today is the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, which has revitalised interest in Formula 1 in the United States since hosting its inaugural race in 2012.
This iconic circuit has transformed the US GP into a season highlight, showcasing thrilling racing and attracting a diverse fan base.
The energy and excitement generated at COTA have played a crucial role in bringing F1 back into the American sports conversation, drawing in new fans and reigniting passion among longtime followers of the sport.
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Lewis Hamilton's record at the US Grand Prix
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton stands out with a remarkable record of six victories at the United States Grand Prix, making him the most successful driver in the event’s history.
This achievement not only underscores his dominance on the track but also cements his legacy as a legendary figure in Formula 1.
No other driver has matched his success at this race, highlighting his exceptional skill and consistency over the years.
His unparalleled performance at this event serves as a testament to his racing prowess and dedication, further elevating the prestige of the United States Grand Prix itself.
His illustrious wins include:
2012: Hamilton claimed victory at COTA in its inaugural race while driving for McLaren, setting the tone for his future success in the U.S.
2015: He added another win, solidifying his dominance at this challenging circuit.
2016: A memorable battle with team-mate Nico Rosberg saw Hamilton take the top spot once again.
2017, 2019, and 2021: His consistency in these years further showcased his adaptability to different racing conditions.
Post-race chaos
Few can forget the post-race chaos at last year’s US Grand Prix.
Hamilton, who finished a close second, and Charles Leclerc, who came in sixth, were both disqualified post-race due to their cars’ skid blocks not meeting regulations.
This marked the first instance of multiple disqualifications in a race since the 2019 Japanese Grand Prix, adding an unexpected twist to the day.
As we look ahead to this weekend, Hamilton's illustrious record at the US GP serves as a reminder of his incredible talent.
Although he may not be dominating the track as he once did, he remains determined to push through as he embarks on the final chapters of his historic partnership with Mercedes.
With just six races left before he transitions to Ferrari in 2025, fans can expect Hamilton to give it his all at COTA.
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