Lewis Hamilton promises to celebrate fulfiling 'boyhood dream' of clinching world title by watching Sir Elton John in concert

By Jonathan Mcevoy For Mail Online

Published: 17:59 EST, 25 October 2015 | Updated: 05:30 EST, 26 October 2015

Lewis Hamilton promised to celebrate fulfilling his ‘boyhood dream’ of clinching a third world title by going to watch Sir Elton John in concert on Sunday night.

The pop star conducted the post-American Grand Prix podium interviews to the obvious surprise of the British driver. ‘I can’t believe you’re here,’ Hamilton, 30, told Sir Elton, who was in town to perform for the fans.

As the champagne was handed out in the Mercedes hospitality area, Hamilton started to reflect on his success, to go with his titles in 2008 and 2014.

Lewis Hamilton has promised to watch Sir Elton John in concert after winning a third world title

Lewis Hamilton has promised to watch Sir Elton John in concert after winning a third world title

The legendary pop star arrived on the podium after Hamilton clinched the US Grand Prix in Austin on Sunday

The legendary pop star arrived on the podium after Hamilton clinched the US Grand Prix in Austin on Sunday

Wearing the Union Flag, he said: ‘It is my boyhood dream fulfilled. I’m just overwhelmed at the moment. It’s difficult to find the words. I’m sitting here thinking about my first British championship, when my dad and I drove home singing We are the Champions. That was of Great Britain — it’s just crazy to think I’m a three-time world champion.

‘I owe it all to my family and my dad who sacrificed so much for me to be here. My dad did not want me to suffer the way he did. To know the Hamilton name will live on when we are gone is special.

‘I’m also grateful for all the really positive energy I get from my fans who travel around the world to see me.

‘This is really a platform for me to inspire young people, and I hope if there’s any inspiring from today that it’s — never give up on your dreams, hopes and desires. There were so many times today I thought I had lost the race. I never for one second believed that I couldn’t do it.

Lewis Hamilton jumps out of his car and celebrates after claiming back-to-back championships in style

Lewis Hamilton jumps out of his car and celebrates after claiming back-to-back championships in style

A beaming Hamilton clenches his fist in celebration
Hamilton launches his trophy high into the air

A beaming Hamilton clenches his fist in celebration before launching his trophy high into the air 

‘Then we pushed and pushed. Nico drove a fantastic race. I have great respect for him as a team-mate. It’s a very humbling experience to equal Ayrton Senna, who meant so much to me and still does today. I feel very blessed.’

Hamilton wore a wide smile but his Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg, who came second, wore a scowl. He was less than impressed when Hamilton threw a cap, seemingly light-heartedly, into his lap as they waited in the green room prior to the interviews. He chucked it back.

Nor did Rosberg offer immediate congratulations. He limited his remarks to: ‘For sure, I am disappointed.’ 

Speaking of his spin seven laps from the end that handed Hamilton the lead, he said: ‘I don’t know what happened.’

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