Hamilton 'blown away' with guard of honour

Lewis Hamilton was 'blown away' with the reception he received from the employees of Mercedes, after returning to the racing headquarters of the British-based manufacturer in Brixworth following his fourth Formula One world championship victory, earned in Mexico a few weeks ago.

As well as Hamilton winning the drivers' championship, Mercedes also claimed the constructors' championship which meant it was party time for everyone involved with the company as he returned for the celebrations yesterday.

As Hamilton arrived at the headquarters in Brixworth, he was met with a guard of honour, something he apparently wasn't expecting.

“This is a very emotional day. I was not expecting this, thanks everyone for the warm welcome. Today is something that I will never forget, turning up at the front gate of the factory and seeing everyone out on the street to welcome me — I’m blown away,” the champion said to the staff of Mercedes.

“This has been an incredible year, it’s been an incredible journey together. There’s a huge amount of respect and appreciation I have for everyone. I’ve been in the sport for a long time now, but to see the work ethic in Brixworth and Brackley really inspires me. Every time I come around, I see everyone operating at 100 per cent, which encourages me to bring my best performance.”

At the end of October, Hamilton secured his fourth Formula One championship at the Mexico Grand Prix with two races to spare. At Interlagos, he put in a remarkable performance to make up 16 places to finish fourth after starting the race in the pit lane, but has insisted to the employees that he would not have the same success if not for their hard work.

“Thank you all for helping me achieve my dreams, " he said.

"It would not have been possible without you. This is the best championship year, because we’ve been fighting another team and because we’ve had the difficulties and challenges we’ve had — that just makes it so much greater."