Hamilton and Vettel swap F1 helmets out of ‘highest respect’

Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel have swapped their Formula 1 helmets with each other in the “highest regard of respect” following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The pair went head-to-head for this year’s championship, with Hamilton coming out on top to seal his fifth drivers’ world title with two races to spare at the Mexican Grand Prix.

In a video released by reigning world champions Mercedes, Hamilton, who claimed his 11th victory of the season in the Abu Dhabi finale, was seen exchanging helmets with Vettel, who came second at Yas Marina.

Hamilton revealed it is the first time the duo have traded helmets, a gesture drivers often do with their rivals as a mark of respect.

“This is kind of an honorary thing that drivers do,” Hamilton said.

“This is the highest kind of regard of respect that we can have as drivers, this is like our jerseys.”

Ferrari driver Vettel, who ended up 88 points behind Hamilton in the 2018 standings, added: “Well done. Five championships is a great achievement and I hope I stop you from anymore.”

The ultimate respect between racing drivers… @LewisHamilton #Seb5 #F1 #AbuDhabiGP pic.twitter.com/hHpSwWzkxS

— Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) November 26, 2018