Lewis Hamilton has finally received his trophy for winning the Formula One World Championship at a FIA awards ceremony in Monaco.
McLaren star collects FIA award
Lewis Hamilton has finally received his trophy for winning the Formula One World Championship at a FIA awards ceremony in Monaco.
The 23-year-old McLaren Mercedes driver, who became the sport's youngest champion after finishing fifth in a dramatic climax to the Brazilian Grand Prix last month, said he had fulfilled a childhood dream.
"This year has been a very special one in my life, the fulfilment of a dream I've had since childhood and an ambition that has taken my family and me on an amazing journey," Hamilton said.
"The fact that I won the Drivers' World Championship on the very last lap of the very last race is something that makes me so proud of our efforts in 2008.
"We pushed to the limit on every lap, from Melbourne to Brazil, and it's that determination and spirit that ultimately won us the world title."
Brazilian driver Felipe Massa, beaten by a single point after winning his home race at Interlagos, celebrated Ferrari's Constructors' Championship and put a positive spin on his achievements.
"We are already looking to a new season and I will do my utmost to come back here to Monaco next year to claim the prize which today has gone to Lewis," he said.
Singapore, host of Formula One's first night grand prix this year, was awarded the race promoters' trophy.
