New Delhi: Lewis Hamilton has rewritten the script in the most emphatic manner possible, claiming his maiden Grand Prix victory for Ferrari. The seven-time world champion provided his answer to critics who questioned whether the magic had faded.
Starting from second on the grid, Hamilton's Scuderia took an initial gamble by starting him on the soft compound tyres, which left him vulnerable on the opening lap. However, it was the prelude to an aggressive three-stop strategy that would ultimately unmask Mercedes' two-stop plans.
The race turned decisively when a Virtual Safety Car handed Hamilton a free pit stop. Emerging with fresh rubber, the 41-year-old unleashed a sequence of qualifying-style laps, augmenting the gap to his former team.
Hamilton managed his advantage effortlessly at the front, while chaos erupted behind him. Mercedes rookie sensation Kimi Antonelli fought his way past teammate George Russell for second place late in the race, only to suffer a shock retirement on Lap 62.
Hamilton's victory secured a comfortable 19.5-second margin over Russell, with Lando Norris completing the podium to seal the first all-British top three since 1968.
This was not just another trophy to add to a record-breaking collection, it was a vindication. At 41, Hamilton has become the sport's oldest race winner in 56 years.
