Lewis Hamilton described achieving his first pole position for Ferrari at the Mexico City Grand Prix as a 'dream' come true, emulating Michael Schumacher. The 41-year-old unexpectedly secured pole from Mercedes' George Russell, marking his first pole in over three years and extending his record career tally to 105. Hamilton and Schumacher share the record for most Drivers' Championships with seven each, though Schumacher's five consecutive titles with Ferrari from 2000 to 2004 remain unmatched.
Hamilton expressed nostalgia, recalling watching Schumacher's poles as a child. Jenson Button praised Hamilton's confidence and smooth driving in Q3, noting his ability to manage oversteer while staying within limits. Hamilton, the oldest pole-sitter since Mario Andretti in 1982, starts alongside Russell, with both capable of preventing Kimi Antonelli from clinching the title on Sunday.
Antonelli needs a top-nine finish to become champion, but a win by Hamilton or Russell would delay the inevitable. Hamilton acknowledged the challenge of defending against Russell and Leclerc, especially with the long straight to Turn 1 offering towing advantages to trailing cars.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing