© Steve Etherington for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
Lewis Hamilton recalls his experience of breaking Michael Schumacher’s most career wins record in Portugal in 2020 and says he expects “a good challenge” from Red Bull this year.
This weekend Lewis Hamilton is returning to the Algarve International Circuit in Portugal, the site of his historic achievement last year. It was here that Lewis finally broke Michael Schumacher’s most career wins record.
While talking to Portuguese publication O Jogo, Lewis recalled the historic moment.
“Honestly, I think I can’t quite describe the meaning of the achievement, because it doesn’t seem like reality,” the Briton said.
“It’s completely surreal: one moment you’re at home watching Michael win all the championships, and the next you’re on the track, racing with him.
“Suddenly you are replacing him [at Mercedes] and then you are equaling his records. It’s as if you are constantly asking me about when I will wake up from this dream.”
The Portimão circuit was a last minute addition to the 2020 calendar due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was the first time Formula 1 visited the track, so it was a big unknown for the teams.
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This year the teams and the drivers are more prepared and Lewis expects a competitive race.
“This time we already know the circuit and we know the car a little better, but since we are going to Portugal at the beginning of the year, I don’t know if we will find a cool climate like last year or if it will be hotter.
“I suppose Red Bull will be very strong in Portimão, so it will certainly be a good challenge and a good race.”
Lewis then revealed his approach to achieving victory in Portugal.
“The key to performance in Portugal was to remain calm and thoughtful and not to make mistakes. It was not giving up and finding my pace.
“Starting by taking it easy and then focusing on giving it my all,” concluded the seven-time champion.
