Lewis Hamilton prepared to party the night away on Sunday after an accomplished Singapore Grand Prix victory that redeemed his last lap crash in Italy two weeks ago.
The Formula One world champion, mathematically out of the championship chase, had conceded his title at Monza when he crashed while challenging overall leader Jenson Button for second place.
”I love coming to Singapore, they had a huge crowd here and put on a great show, so I came here hoping for a great result after what happened in the last race,” the Briton told reporters after finishing 9.6 seconds ahead of Toyota’s Timo Glock.
”In the end, I did it … we did it and we are very, very happy.”
Hamilton landed in Singapore knowing there were four races left to redeem a disappointing season that had brought him just one win in Hungary.
His McLaren has improved in recent weeks but after complaining about his car and the track prior to qualifying, the 24-year-old’s mood changed completely after he took pole position and converted that advantage into a win.
”It was not a perfect Friday [practice] but Saturday was great,” he added. ”I had my family and girlfriend here, so overall it was an incredible weekend and I am looking forward to a big celebration tonight.”
Fending off the challenges of first Nico Rosberg then Sebastian Vettel after both Germans picked up drive-through penalties for pit-lane misdemeanours, Hamilton was untroubled in the closing laps.
”It was fairly straightforward after I made a good start and was able to build a gap over the others as I knew I had more fuel so could stay out longer,” the Briton said.
”It was a nicely controlled race so I have to thank my team for a great weekend.”
Hamilton can now turn his attention to next weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, a circuit he is excited about racing on for the first time.
”I have never been there but have been told that after Monaco it is the best circuit and I grew up watching great drivers of the past race there and have always wanted to go,” Hamilton said.
”So I am excited but sure it will be a very tough weekend as I get to learn the circuit and master it. I’ll do all I can and given the momentum of this race it should be a positive experience.” – Reuters