Mercedes celebrates fifth F1 title double with Lauda tribute

Mercedes has celebrated becoming only the second team to win five consecutive Formula 1 world drivers’ and constructors’ championships after returning to its Brixworth and Brackley factory bases and ran a special Niki Lauda tribute.

With Lewis Hamilton taking victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix he was able to help wrap up the 2018 F1 world constructors’ title for Mercedes to go alongside his drivers’ title secured last time out in Mexico.

It sees the German manufacturer continue its F1 domination in the V6 hybrid era with five consecutive world title doubles – only achieved by Ferrari with Michael Schumacher previously between 2000-2004.

While celebrating its success with both factories, team principal Toto Wolff paid tribute to Non-Executive Chairman of Mercedes-Benz Lauda who was absent as he continues to recovery from a lung transplant which he underwent in early August.

“Today, we're also paying special tribute to Niki,” Wolff said. “Niki, you probably would have told us that we shouldn't be so "damn emotional" today, but I think I speak for all of us when I say that we miss you and very much look forward to seeing you again soon.

“What a great reception from the team - I have goose bumps! It was an amazing season with many ups and downs, but those downs have made us better and make it even more enjoyable to celebrate today. Who would have ever thought a few years ago to hold a celebration for the fifth consecutive Championship double?”

Wolff puts the historic F1 achievement down to the teams’ “collective energy” which has been frequently backed up by both Hamilton and teammate Valtteri Bottas.

“I think one of our core strengths is the great energy of this team - you can feel it when you walk in here, it's the collective energy in Brixworth and Brackley, that makes this team truly special,” Wolff said.

“We all embrace the challenge, we take our competitors seriously and we all try to continuously progress as human beings and as professionals in our jobs in order to raise the bar.

“This constant striving for improvement, trying to be better every single day, is exactly what makes you win championships.”