Lewis Hamilton claims first win since his bombshell move to Ferrari after storming to victory at the Barcelona Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton took the long-awaited first win for Ferrari and his first victory in almost two years after taking the checkered flag in Barcelona.

It’s been a long wait to return to the top step of the podium for the seven-time world champion, who endured a dreadful first season in Ferrari red following a shock move from Mercedes.

However, this season was a different story, despite Mercedes’ early dominance; There were signs that Hamilton could be a real threat to Kimi Antonelli and George Russell in the title fight.

And now Hamilton has delivered a performance that will give fans reason to dream that a record eighth world title might be possible, following his flawless performance in Barcelona.

He crossed the line 19 seconds ahead of Russell, who closed the gap on teammate Kimi Antonelli, who finished without points in the drivers’ championship after being forced to retire late in the race.

McLaren driver Lando Norris completed the British podium in third place. This was the first time since the 1968 United States Grand Prix that Jackie Stewart claimed victory for Matra-Ford ahead of Graham Hill (Lotus-Ford) and John Surtees (Honda).

‘Grazie tutti Maranello’ Hamilton told the race engineers.

Kim Kardashian accompanied Hamilton at last week’s Monaco Grand Prix

‘Thank you very much. You helped me realize this dream and I can’t thank you enough. Thanks to everyone who put in so much effort at home.

‘I’m so proud of you. To my family, I love you My fans, thank you for continuing to remind me of who I am. I couldn’t have done this without you.’

Hamilton’s rise in form coincided with the public announcement of his relationship with reality TV star Kim Kardashian.

The American driver accompanied Hamilton to the Monaco Grand Prix last weekend; The couple appeared on the grid for the first time since the start of their relationship.

More to follow.