Lewis Hamilton reflects on post-2021 struggles and silverstone victory tears

A reflective and emotional Lewis Hamilton shared his feelings on winning again in Formula 1 at the British Grand Prix, revealing that there were moments since the controversial end to the 2021 season when he considered quitting the sport.

Hamilton was visibly moved at the end of Sunday’s thrilling wet-dry race at Silverstone. His historic and electrifying performance earned him a record ninth victory at this Grand Prix.

While it marked his record-extending 104th win in F1, it was his first win in 57 races, dating back to the Saudi Arabian GP in December 2021. That race preceded the infamous Abu Dhabi finale, where he lost out on an eighth world title to Max Verstappen.

Since then, Hamilton has rarely been in contention for victories, with Mercedes struggling under the new regulations introduced in 2022. The team’s two wins during this period were secured by George Russell, most recently in Austria last week.

Overwhelmed by emotion, Hamilton shed tears as he crossed the finish line. Speaking to Sky Sports F1, he described the experience as surreal and heart-racing. “I had so many amazing times here in the past but when I came across the line, something released in me that I have been holding onto for a long time,” he said. It was the most emotional end to a win he had ever experienced. Reflecting on past races, he admitted he never used to cry but was profoundly moved this time.

Hamilton’s journey since 2021 has been fraught with challenges, filled with thoughts and doubts about his future in the sport. He confessed that there were times he considered quitting. “To arrive and continue to get up and continue to try and finally succeed is the greatest feeling I can remember having,” he said.

In the immediate aftermath of the race, while basking in the applause of the 164,000-strong crowd, Hamilton admitted there were times he doubted his abilities and questioned whether he would ever win again. “It’s so tough, I think for anyone, but the important thing is just how you continue to get up and you’ve got to continue to dig deep even when you feel like you’re at the bottom of the barrel,” he explained.

Hamilton credited the support of his team and fans for helping him persevere. “There have definitely been days between 2021 and here where I didn’t feel like I was good enough or I was going to get back to where I am today. But the important thing is I had great people around me, continuing to support me. My team, every time I turned up and saw them putting in the effort, that really encouraged me to do the same thing,” he said.

Fans worldwide, particularly in the UK, played a crucial role in his journey back to the top. “My fans, when I see them around the world, they have been so supportive. So a big, big thank you to everybody,” he added.

Hamilton, who recently signed a new deal with Ferrari to continue in F1 until at least the end of 2026, celebrated his victory by waving a Union Jack flag in front of the Silverstone crowd. He shared emotional moments in parc ferme with his mother, Carmen, and father, Anthony, who were present to witness his triumphant return.

Reflecting on the support he receives, Hamilton said, “I definitely know for sure that I couldn’t do what I do without the fans I have. The people I interact with and meet around the world, particularly here in the UK.” He reminisced about his early days in Stevenage and the unwavering support of his parents.

Hamilton highlighted the impact of fan support on his perseverance, stating, “It’s very incredible to have that support because that really does lift you up when you see people. They are so generous with gifting you something or just pumping out positive energy. That’s one thing that keeps me going. And the other is just that glimpse of hope.”

Hamilton, who has “still I rise” tattooed on his back, concluded with a powerful message: “Never give up. It’s so important. It’s the easiest thing to do but you should never do it.”