Hamilton: 'Drivers engaging with fans is key for the sport'

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Lewis Hamilton's massive popularity stems from his success on the race track but also from his openness to engage with his fans.

The F1 star is an active user of social media but yesterday, while everyone was waiting on the decision to continue or scrap the second free practice session, Hamilton crossed the track to salute the fans, handing out autographed caps to a thrilled crowd.

"Us engaging with the fans is key for the sport," he told Sky Sports F1.

"They come here to see the cars but also to engage with a certain character that they've taken a liking to.

"It's impossible to ignore my fans that are standing out there with the flags. They are so noticeable. There's another place around Turn 14, there are a lot of British flags there."

Potential wet start on Sunday 'excites' Hamilton

The Mercedes driver said he felt for the fans after the cancellation of yesterday's session, and simply wanted to give something back to all the people that had gone through the trouble of being there in the first place.

"We've got a fantastic track which is a long way out from the city, it takes a long time to get here every day.

"These fans came out and they stayed all day yesterday in not the greatest weather. So we've got to make sure we keep this race."

Lewis Hamilton's engaging attitude begs one question however: why didn't any of his colleagues come out and salute the fans in a similar way?

Gallery: All the pictures from Saturday's action in Shanghai

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.