Hamilton extends lead after victory in Italy
Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has equalled Michael Schumacher's record of five Italian Grand Prix wins.
It left Ferrari feeling the pain yet again in their own backyard.
The Mercedes driver and his Ferrari title rival Sebastian Vettel tangled at the fourth corner of the opening lap, with the German spinning around while the Briton sped off with an undamaged car.
Vettel then fought back through the field from 18th to fourth, ending the day 30 points behind Hamilton and with seven races remaining.
Vettel's veteran Finnish team mate Kimi Raikkonen finished second, after starting on pole position and racing superbly, with compatriot Valtteri Bottas third for Mercedes.
The thrilling victory was a fifth in a row for Mercedes at Monza, the former royal park near Milan.
"You are the man, you are the man," said Hamilton's engineer Peter Bonnington over the radio as the chequered flag was waved. "You knocked that out of the park today."
"It was one of the most exciting of victories that I’ve had, that I can remember," Hamilton told reporters later.
For the Ferrari 'tifosi' it was a major let-down at the high-speed spiritual home of the sport's most glamorous and successful team, who last won there in 2010, and they did not hide their feelings.
"Today was so difficult. Whilst the negativity is never great, that's what powered me along. I actually accept it," said Hamilton, booed on the podium by the crowd flooding the main straight with their flares and flags.
"I love being here in Italy...the track is incredible, and it's a such an honour to win here in front of such a great crowd."
Published: by Radio NewsHub