Lewis Hamilton Crowned 'Eight-Time' World Champion at Mercedes Sponsor Event
In a cheeky slip of the tongue, or perhaps a sneaky twist of fate, Lewis Hamilton found himself being introduced as an "eight-time World Champion" once more during an appearance at the Petronas University of Technology. The British racing champion, who remained 7-time champion after a controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, could only offer a wry smile as he stepped onto the stage amidst thunderous applause.
"Put your hands together for the 8-time world champion Lewis Hamilton," the host enthusiastically declared.
Now, whether this was an innocent blunder or a subtle nod to the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains to be seen. But it certainly wasn't the first time this honorary title made its way into Hamilton's introductions.
The Mercedes superstar was on the brink of making history at the Yas Marina Circuit, dominating the race and seemingly cruising towards his eighth world championship. But, as we all know, fate had other plans. Enter the Safety Car and a series of debatable decisions by then-F1 Race Director Michael Masi, which ultimately paved the way for Max Verstappen's thrilling, last-lap overtaking manoeuvre to snatch the crown.
Masi's handling of the Safety Car, which involved a slight bending of the rules by allowing only select lapped drivers to pass, left many in the racing community scratching their heads and crying foul. The subsequent rule breach, where Masi called the Safety Car into the pits without completing the required additional lap, only fueled the fire.
As the dust settled, it was Verstappen who emerged victorious, clinching his maiden world title and leaving Hamilton to wonder what might have been. But, as the saying goes, you can't keep a good man down with the Mercedes driver still pushing forward with the, albeit disastrous, W14.
So, whether it's a playful jab at the controversy or an honest mistake, it seems that the mythical "eight-time World Champion" title will continue to follow Hamilton like a shadow. And who knows? With his undeniable talent and determination, perhaps it won't be long before he makes it a reality?