Runner-up Hamilton praises fans and Rosberg

Lewis Hamilton was gracious in defeat when he spoke on the Mexican Grand Prix podium, today's runner-up praising his team's flawless performance as well as the amazing fervor of the crowds.

"Nico drove a fantastic race," said the 2015 World Champion.

"It's just been fantastic to be here, I've never seen a crowd like this - it's like a football match. The fans have been amazing, never seen anything like this!"

Dwelling more into the race itself, Hamilton believed his team had done a perfect job on the strategy front and while his pace was good, by his own admittance, the Mercedes driver found himself challenged whenever he got within a few car lengths of his leading team mate.

"I really had a lot of fun out there today. The team did a great job and Nico drove fantastically well and didn't make any mistakes today."

"I really did everything I could and pushed as much as I could without cooking my brakes, but as soon as you get close you just lose downforce on this track, which already lacks grip, so it was very difficult."

Mercedes initial plan of following a one-stop strategy was undermined by tyre wear which exceeded its expectations, forcing the team to bring both of its drivers in for a second stop, a call initially questioned by Hamilton over the radio as he stayed out for an additional lap.

"In hindsight it's irrelevant," he said. "The team had concerns for safety and they had to take a position on that, and when it comes to safety you follow the orders."

REPORT: Rosberg holds off Hamilton in Mexican GP as Vettel crashes

AS IT HAPPENED: Mexican Grand Prix

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