Written by By Shweta Bhattacharjee, CNN
(CNN) — A fifth Formula One world championship was enough to draw tears of joy from Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton.
Ahead of his victory in Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina, Hamilton thanked all those who helped him achieve his “dream,” ahead of the post-race podium celebrations at the F1 World Celebration Night on Tuesday.
Michael Schumacher’s seven titles were famously won with Mercedes, and now Hamilton has matched that achievement in a year with the same team.
“I think it’s probably the best Mercedes F1 team I’ve ever been a part of,” Hamilton told the crowd. “And you are the reason why.
“I think the guys in the garage have worked so hard this year. The whole team has really worked together to make sure we gave 100% and if I say that again I don’t know how I’m going to hold it in, but I appreciate that from you guys so much.
“I’d love to make this moment complete by taking this trophy home. Thank you for all the support and thank you for being my team.”
Bottas finishes behind the Mercedes pair of Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas in Abu Dhabi, but it ends a difficult year for him.