© LAT Images for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd
Lewis Hamilton has received an almost home race reception from the Brazilian fans at this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix.
Lewis Hamilton, who never hid that his biggest racing hero is Brazilian legend Ayrton Senna, has been welcomed with open arms by fans in Brazil.
There’s no doubt that the Briton is a beloved figure in Brazil, as strong cheering could be heard whenever Lewis appeared on the screen.
Throughout the weekend the fans expressed appreciation in a multitude of ways.
Gabriel Araujo from Reuters reports one fan shouted “Hamilton is coming for you” to Max Verstappen from a footbridge over the paddock as he was being interviewed after Saturday’s Sprint Race.
And Lewis also showed his love for the Brazilian people, firstly with a special Senna tribute helmet, and then in his post-race celebration with the Brazilian flag.
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He also posted many tributes to Brazil on his social media channels. In one of those he wrote that “this country and its fans possess an energy like no other”, while in another he posted a heartfelt tribute to Senna.
One fan in attendance, Anderson Cardoso, explained the country’s special bond with Hamilton: “Senna has always been his idol… Every time Lewis comes to Brazil, he brings a special homage.”
Another fan, Everton da Silva, said he thinks “a great part of the Brazilians hope that he will be able to turn around this championship”.
Ultimately Lewis repaid the fans’ belief in him by winning the race from tenth on the grid, in what was one of the best performances of his career.
