Hamilton marks 400th race in honorary home of Brazil

Lewis Hamilton will make his 400th Formula One start at this weekend’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix, a milestone celebrated in Brazil, where he is hugely popular and an honorary citizen. The seven-time world champion remains a contender near the front of the field, and fellow drivers have praised his speed, commitment and influence on younger competitors.

Hamilton, 41, has won a record 106 races and taken 105 pole positions; he is third in the championship, two points behind Max Verstappen. He claimed pole in Mexico last week and finished second after a clash with Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc. Hamilton debuted with McLaren in 2007, won his first title in 2008 and six more with Mercedes before joining Ferrari; only Fernando Alonso has made more grand prix starts.