Sunday: Hamilton wins as F1 returns to the USA
Lewis Hamilton clinched a great victory as Formula 1 returned to the United States. The McLaren driver edged out Sebastian Vettel by a narrow margin. Jenson Button experienced a more challenging race but still finished in 5th place, having enjoyed the race a lot.
Lewis Hamilton – Winner:
« I am extremely proud and very happy. I almost lost my voice because I was screaming so much on the cooldown lap – not really cool! Overtaking the two Red Bulls during the race was the most incredible thing for me. The backmarkers really played an important role today – and, in the end, it was in my favor. I was often hindered when trying to make my way through traffic, but things went my way today.
When Seb [editor’s note: Vettel] was delayed by a lapped driver, I knew I had to seize my chance, so I cranked the engine to maximum power and attacked like crazy. On the long straight, I went to the outside, but Seb closed the door, so I went inside, and he came back on me. I was very lucky. It was very close. What made the difference today between Seb and me? I wanted it more, that’s all!
I won the last United States Grand Prix in 2007, so coming back and winning here again – in front of such a crowd – is even more special actually. There are a few Grand Prix that stand out; there’s Monaco, Silverstone, Montreal, Spa, and Monza. Now, you can add this track to the list – it’s already one of the best circuits in the world, maybe even in the top 3.
It’s a great feeling to end the season on a high. Hopefully, we will go to Brazil next week with the same level of performance – I would love to win my last two races for the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team.
Jenson Button – 5th:
« Starting from the dirty side of the track was very tough – I was 15th by the end of the first lap. So 5th is probably the best result I could have achieved. I had a lot of fun this afternoon, and I had some great battles as I climbed back up. There was a lot of action and overtaking – and most of it was very clean, which is nice to have.
Of course, fifth place wasn’t the result I ideally wanted, but the car was working really well, and with a better starting position on the grid, I clearly could have been placed higher. Congratulations to Lewis and the entire Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team.
It was a great race in front of very enthusiastic American fans – they seemed to really enjoy the show. Before arriving here, we knew we had to put on a good show, and I think we did. There was action and suspense from start to finish, which is exactly what you need to create a sporting spectacle. I really hope the USA will finally start following Formula 1.
