Hamilton: “I dedicate the victory to Muhammad Ali”

Lewis Hamilton won the Canadian F1 GP ahead of Sebastian Vettel and Valtteri Bottas. Overtaken at the start by the Ferrari driver and Rosberg, the Englishman came into contact with his teammate and made the most of his car and Ferrari's gamble which called Vettel to the pits early during a virtual safety car. Having jumped into the lead, Hamilton made the most of his one-stop strategy, remaining in the lead and keeping Ferrari at a distance.

“What a fantastic day. First of all I want to thank all the spectators, they made the atmosphere so special,” said Hamilton. “We come here every year and it gets better and better. Today I didn't have a good start, some clutch problems, Sebastian and Nico got off to a good start, the tires were cold and then in the second corner I had a big understeer" declared Hamilton on the podium.

Then in the press conference Hamilton dedicated the victory to one of his idols, Muhammad Ali, who recently passed away: "I never dedicate victories to anyone but there is a person who has inspired me greatly throughout my life, Muhammad Ali, and I want to dedicate this victory to him and his family. I don't know why but while I was driving I was thinking about him, and this victory is for him and his family. Rest in peace. The fight with Sebastian was very nice, the duel with exchanges of fast laps was very nice. The one-stop strategy was the best and I'm really happy and focused. I feel truly privileged and I am convinced that I ran one of my best races. Thanks to the team for all the great work this weekend.”