Formula 1's 2018 title protagonists, Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton, marked the respect they have for each other by swapping helmets following the conclusion of the season in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
Mercedes' Hamilton and Ferrari's Vettel were locked in a tight battle for the championship, each bidding for their fifth F1 title.
The season saw the lead at the top of the standings fluctuate wildly between the pair before Hamilton eventually triumphed at the Mexican Grand Prix, having gradually pulled clear after the summer break.
At the end of the final race of the season, the duo signed off by exchanging helmets.
"This is kind of an honorary thing that drivers do, this is the highest regard of respect that we can have as drivers," said Hamilton.
"This is like our jerseys. So here's one of mine, great job this year, and it's a real pleasure racing against you."
Vettel, who has exchanged helmets with a number of drivers, said he was "really looking forward" to finally getting his hands on one of Hamilton's, before adding: "Well done to you. Five championships, that is a great achievement. I hope I [can] stop you from getting any more!"
The ultimate respect between racing drivers… 🤜🤛@LewisHamilton #Seb5 #F1 #AbuDhabiGP pic.twitter.com/hHpSwWzkxS
— Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) November 26, 2018
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