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Melodrama in Montreal marks the beginning of F1's new era

NEWS STORY
10/06/2007

Trying desperately (honest) not to sink to the level of frenzied hysteria witnessed elsewhere, we have to admit that this might be one of those days that goes down in history, one of those special days we'll refer to in the future, the day Lewis Hamilton won his first Grand Prix.

Now hold on! Before you think that we've handed over to the Daily Telegraph or even The Times, let us assure you that this is your regular correspondent and not an intruder. However, the fact is that Hamilton is a remarkable talent, and we might be on the verge of witnessing the dawn of a new era in F1 history.

There have been many such eras, most recently that of Schumacher, and before that Senna. However, over the years there have been many others… and today we might just witness the beginning of the age of Hamilton.

Yes he is in the best car, but even so, scoring five consecutive podium results - four of them on the second step - and giving the reigning (double) World Champion a run for his money - himself not lacking in the talent department - is no mean feat, especially for a twenty-two-year-old.

Having taken pole, and with the MP4-22 looking bullet-proof, it is highly likely that today Lewis will convert a well-earner pole position to win, and what should be the first of many.

While some have only recently caught on to the Hamilton phenomena, others have been aware of him for some time, if only since he stepped up to GP2. However, winning the feeder series was no guarantee that he would make the next step - that to F1 - quite so successfully.

The fact is, young Lewis is breaking all the rules, he is doing what he shouldn't, and F1 can only benefit. If he wins today, many of us, particularly in the UK will face a media frenzy of unparalleled levels, some of may not survive. However, once the dust settles, and they rediscover football, cricket, rugby or whatever other sport we happen to be good at at that time, the rest of us can say… 'I remember the day'.

Of course, before Lewis makes history, there is the little matter of dealing with his teammate Fernando Alonso, not to mention Felipe Massa, Kimi Raikkonen and Nick Heidfeld. Indeed there is the little matter of the fist corner at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, a corner that has witnessed countless 'mishaps' over the years.

Ferrari was disappointing in qualifying but only a fool would write them off, indeed Felipe Massa has hinted that strategically the Italian team is strong here, while Kimi Raikkonen appears to have a glint in his eye this weekend.

No disrespect to Hamilton, but Heidfeld deserves something, if only for his remarkable performance yesterday, when it mattered most. Furthermore, keep an eye on Robert Kubica, as BMW continues its strategic experiments with its drivers.

Another driver who gave a great performance yesterday was Webber. However, after his recent problems the Australian will be happy merely to finish far less think about points or even a possible podium.

Rosberg, Fisichella and Trulli will also be hopeful of points finishes, all three appearing to carry the hopes of their respective teams this season.

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