Hamilton makes history in Abu Dhabi
In a season which saw the race for the Formula One World Championship go right down to the final day, it was Lewis Hamilton who clinched the prestigious accolade for a second time to cement his name amongst the British greats.
The Mercedes driver lead from the first flag to the last in a performance which perfectly summed up his 2014 campaign behind the wheel.
Edging ahead of his teammate, Nico Rosberg, on the first turn, the championship was never in doubt, especially when his German compatriot suffered engine difficulties and was pushed way back down the grid.
The pair had been neck and neck all year, with only Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo managing to shrug them off top spot on three occasions, and going into the race in Abu Dhabi, just 17 points separated them.
With points being doubled at the final grand prix of the year, the result was far from a foregone conclusion. Rosberg took pole position after qualifying fastest and another tight race looked to be coming.
It was a shame that car troubles took away some of the competitiveness on the final day of the racing calendar yet for Hamilton, it was still ‘the best day of his life’.
“This has been just an incredible year. I can’t believe how amazing,” said Hamilton.
“This is the greatest moment in my life. It feels very surreal.
“(Winning in) 2008 was special but the feeling I have now is above and beyond. It’s the greatest feeling I’ve ever had. Thanks so much everyone.”
Meanwhile, the Force India duo of Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Perez picked up an impressive haul of 28 points on their final outing of the year, finishing in sixth and seventh position respectively.
