Lewis Hamilton revelled in his victory at the United States Grand Prix and revealed that he was “kind of chilled” at the start, despite losing the lead to Sebastian Vettel.
Vettel grabbed the initiative from Hamilton off the line to capture the lead into Turn 1, and built a slender buffer, before the Mercedes driver closed in.
Hamilton moved past after a handful of laps and from there executed a one-stop strategy to triumph for the ninth time this season, leaving him on the brink of a fourth world crown.
“The race was great, it was probably one of the most fun races that I have had for a while – and there were quite a few fun ones this year,” said Hamilton.
“I didn't get away to a great start, but I was kind of chilled about it, knowing from the past that I can overtake here. I had a lot of fun trying to get closer and overtaking.
“The wind changed 180 degrees and it made the track so special to drive; the car felt amazing going through the Esses.
“We have three more races left this season – and that's three I want to win.”
Hamilton also heaped praise on his Mercedes team, after the outfit secured its fourth successive Constructors’ Championship.
“There has been an incredible push for this kind of performance this year,” said Hamilton.
“We really pulled together more than I have experienced and seen over the last five years to create something quite special.
“I'm really proud for everyone, especially going from one era of car to another which is something that has never been done before.
“It shows the strength of the team and I'm proud to be part of it.”
Hamilton leads the Drivers’ Championship by 66 points, and needs just a fifth-place finish to clinch the title in Mexico.
