Lewis Hamilton says his fourth world title is the result of a combined effort from the best team in Formula 1, which did not have the best car in 2017.
Many would rightly argue that the most successful British driver in F1 enjoyed a clear advantage in 2008 with McLaren, and in 2014 and 15 with Mercedes.
Hamilton insists however that this season's W08 is not the cream of the crop.
"Whilst people have written that we've had the best car, I don't believe we've had the best car," he argued.
"I think we've been the best team, we've done the best job but there have been times when we've not had the best car."
Mercedes' relative weakness at some venues this year undoubtedly forced Hamilton to raise his game.
But the major catalyst for that improvement has been the presence of a worthy and tenacious pair of opponents: Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel.
"It felt challenging on a personal level, this year is a championship of which I've been hoping for, a little bit like 2008, where you're fighting another team, fighting this historic team, which Michael raced for and won championships in," he said.
"I'm really proud of that and to be able to battle someone else who is a four-time world champion, a proven world champion, who's got great skill and a team also that knows how to win championship.
"That's how every championship needs to be, and I hope there's more championships like this one where we have this tough battle."
Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
