Hamilton hails Lauda in sixth title celebrations

Lewis Hamilton paid tribute to the late Niki Lauda after wrapping up his sixth world title on Sunday, claiming the Mercedes team mentor was with him "in spirit".

Triple world champion Lauda passed away in May at the age of 70 and the Austrian legend was very much in the mind of 34-Hamilton after he secured the 2019 title.

"I miss him so much and I know he would take his cap off here today," said Hamilton.

"I am sure he is here in spirit." Hamilton added he felt this season had been his hardest year to date in fighting to win the championship.

"Behind the scenes, we have worked so hard and it is so challenging to us all," he said after finishing second at the United States Grand Prix to teammate Valtteri Bottas.

"And every message of support is important from everyone, so much that people don't believe. That is why I try to put out messages that are positive. We all struggle and if it helps just one person then it is worth it."
"Just now, I saw my parents, my family, as I came in and I saw my dad's smile and that means it all to me. From day one, he has been there all the way. Cloud Nine doesn't get close to this."
- 'Had no money' -
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"My dad told me, when I was like six or seven, never to give up and that's kind of the family motto."
Asked how many more titles he can win, he said: "I don't know about championships, but as an athlete I feel as fresh as I can be and these next races we will keep pushing."