Sebastian Vettel dedicated his victory in Sunday’s Hungarian Grand Prix to Jules Bianchi following the Frenchman’s death at the age of 25 last week.
Bianchi passed away nine days ago following a nine month fight against severe head injuries sustained in an accident at the Japanese Grand Prix back in October, and was laid to rest on Tuesday.
An emotional weekend in Hungary was capped off with a race to remember as Vettel managed to keep his cool whilst all about him were losing theirs, storming to his second victory of the season.
Vettel made a heartfelt message to the team over the radio after crossing the line about Bianchi, and dedicated his victory to the Frenchman when speaking on the podium after the race.
“Incredible day, but I think this victory is for Jules,” Vettel said.
“We know that is has been an incredibly tough week, and it’s I think for all of us very difficult, so this one is for him, and especially all the people at Ferrari.
“We knew sooner or later he would have been part of our team, part of our family. This victory is for Jules.”
Vettel seized the lead after making a great start from third place on the grid, and looked poised to claim an easy victory before a safety car period wiped away his advantage.
Despite coming under pressure from Nico Rosberg and Daniel Ricciardo late on, Vettel managed to stay ahead and bring his car home for his first win in Hungary.
“It was definitely from our point of view no need for [the safety car], but it obviously made it a lot more interesting at the end,” Vettel said.
“We had a great start, and obviously it was crucial to get in the lead straightaway. The car was difficult but great to drive. It has been a great race. We showed great pace.
“Thank you very much to the team for the recovery since Friday. Today it just came together, and despite the safety car, we still managed to win. This one is for the team as well.”