After winning the Japanese GP, Lewis Hamilton paid tribute to Mo Farah, a fellow British sporting icon, by mimicking the runner’s iconic ‘MoBot’ celebration on the podium.
Farah, who has been training with the Tokyo University team, was a guest of honour at the Suzuka Circuit and witnessed his compatriot extend his lead at the top of the drivers’ rankings by clinching his eighth win of the season.
Leading from pole, Hamilton’s chances were boosted when championship rival Sebastian Vettel retired due to engine trouble with his Ferrari early on but was pushed to the limit by young Red Bull driver Max Verstappen.
Hamilton, a triple-world champion, crossed the chequered flag 1.2111 seconds ahead of Verstappen.
Vettel’s retirement and Hamilton’s subsequent win has effectively confirmed a fourth world title for the 32-year-old and he was understandably ecstatic at his first-ever win from a pole at the iconic Suzuka Circuit.
With good friend Mo Farah, who retired from track events this year after dominating the 5,000m and 10,000m events in recent years, watching, Hamilton extended his lead over Vettel to a considerable 59 points.
Suzuka was the final race for the Asian leg of the 2017 F1 calendar and the teams now head to the United States.
Just four races are left in the season and Mercedes look set to clinch the Drivers and Constructors’ titles for the year.
