Hamilton and Massa's Post-2008 Brazil Encounter Revealed

Former McLaren communications director Matt Bishop has shed light on a poignant encounter between Lewis Hamilton and Felipe Massa in the Interlagos paddock, shortly after the dramatic conclusion of the 2008 Drivers’ Championship. Despite the intense emotions, Massa magnanimously congratulated Hamilton on his first world title amidst a chaotic media scrum.

Why it matters:

The 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix remains one of F1's most iconic and controversial races, with its outcome still under legal dispute. This firsthand account offers a rare glimpse into the immediate, human reactions of two fierce competitors, contrasting with the ongoing legal and historical debates surrounding the 'Crashgate' scandal that influenced the championship.

The details:

• Dramatic Conclusion: The 2008 title was decided on the final lap, with Hamilton securing enough points by passing Timo Glock just before the finish line, clinching the championship by a single point over Massa.
• Massa's Grace: Despite believing he had won the title for a brief period, Massa sought out Hamilton in the paddock, extending his hand and offering a sincere, “Congratulations, Lewis, well done.”
• Hamilton's Reaction: Hamilton, in a state of pure elation, briefly adopted a "sombre look" when confronted by Massa, acknowledging the intensity of the moment with a simple, “That was impressive.”
• 'Crashgate' Controversy: The race result is now the subject of a legal challenge by Massa, following Bernie Ecclestone's 2023 claims that he and Max Mosley knew about the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix 'Crashgate' scandal during that season but chose not to act.
• Timo Glock's Ordeal: Timo Glock, the driver Hamilton passed on the final lap, faced unfounded conspiracy theories claiming he intentionally slowed down. Bishop dismissed these as "moronic," noting Glock received death threats and required a police escort from the circuit.

Between the lines:

Bishop's anecdote highlights the profound human element often overshadowed by the high-stakes world of Formula 1. Massa's immediate post-race sportsmanship, despite immense personal disappointment, speaks volumes about his character. The ongoing legal battle, however, shows how the long shadow of controversy can impact historical results and the careers of those involved, even years later.

What's next:

The legal proceedings initiated by Felipe Massa over the 2008 championship result are ongoing. The outcome of this case could potentially rewrite F1 history, impacting legacies and setting precedents for future disputes regarding historical race manipulations. While Hamilton's seven world titles are etched in history, this saga continues to challenge the narrative of his first championship win.