Källenius: Hamilton success matched by 'inspiring journey' off track

Mercedes-Benz chief executive Ola Källenius paid tribute to Lewis Hamilton for winning his record-equaling seventh world title in Turkey last weekend, and insists the F1 superstar's racing success is matched by his "inspiring journey" off the track.

Hamilton - whose association with Mercedes goes back to his karting days - won his maiden world championship with the Mercedes-powered McLaren team in 2008, but the 94-time Grand Prix winner was crowned six times with the German manufacturer's works outfit since 2013, including four consecutive titles between 2017 and 2020.

And there are no signs of the Hamilton/Mercedes dominant force loosening its grip on F1, with the pair likely extending its partnership into the future.

"Huge congratulations to Lewis on this seventh World Championship – what an incredible achievement! Lewis has been a part of our Mercedes family for over 20 years now," Källenius said.

"He joined us as an incredible karting talent; today, he’s one of the best drivers of all times.

"Lewis keeps improving even when it might seem like there’s little left to perfect, and I’m excited to see where else his journey will take him."

Hamilton's banner year on the track has also been marked by the sporting icon's activism and fight for diversity and racial injustice, a public involvement the 35-year-old stepped up last spring in the wake of the murder of George Floyd in the US and the social unrest that followed.

There are those who believe that indulging in activism or taking a stand against racial discrimination is problematic when Hamilton does it while wearing a Mercedes suit.

Read also: Brawn: Dominant Hamilton at 'pinnacle of career' in F1

But Källenius was clear that Mercedes' star driver enjoys the unwavering support of his employer.

"It’s not just Lewis’ development on track that is impressive, but also his inspiring journey off track. Lewis has become a passionate advocate for more diversity and inclusion," said the Swedish executive.

"He has also taken tangible steps to support this important cause. As a team and as a company we stand with him.

"We’re proud you’re part of our family, Lewis. Thank you for seven world championships powered by Mercedes!"

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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.