Hamilton reveals key to Mercedes' 2018 dominance

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes were officially crowned as Formula 1 world champions at the FIA's Prize Giving gala in Saint-Petersburg. A fifth title for Hamilton and the Silver Arrows came in 2018, with the Briton crediting those in the background for his latest triumph.

Hamilton and Mercedes saw off the challenge from Sebastian Vettel and Ferrari to continue dominance of the V6 Hybrid era.

With just Michael Schumacher now ahead in terms of grand prix wins and drivers' titles, Hamilton has recently suggested that his aim is to become the "all-time great" of the sport.

But he says he will not be able to achieve his targets without the help of the entire team behind him.

"I wouldn't be up here without this incredible team, I'm just really a chink in the chain," said Hamilton with the drivers' championship trophy in his hands.

????FIAPrizeGiving - It’s official, the 2018 FIA @f1 World Champion is crowned in Saint Petersburg. Congratulations @lewishamilton! 2018 was the year the Briton took an already stratospheric career to another level, securing his fifth world driver’s titles ?????????? pic.twitter.com/BQWL8EEOoA — FIA (@fia) December 7, 2018

"There's so many people in the background who are the unsung heroes. We're the ones who come up here and are seen and receive these great awards, but it couldn't have been done without this great team.

"It's been a real privilege being with Mercedes-Benz the last six years.

"It's crazy to think that it's my 12th season but we've just got to keep pushing, keep trying to raise the bar.

"This does feel incredible. I don't think it's really going to kick in.

"I don't know how it is for the other champions here, but it just feels like a normal day - but of course it's a real privilege to be up here and receive this award."

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