Sebastian Vettel dedicated his Hungarian Grand Prix victory to the late Jules Bianchi in what was the first race since the death of the Marussia Formula 1 driver.
The four-time world champion offered his own personal tribute to the former Ferrari Academy driver on the podium after coming through a wild race to clinch his 41st victory (equalling Ayrton Senna’s race-winning tally) and his second for the Maranello team.
The Formula 1 paddock also paid tribute to the 25-year-old, who last week succumbed to severe head injuries sustained at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix, with a minute’s silence prior to start of Sunday’s race.
Key figures from the sport alongside the current crop of drivers took part in a moment of remembrance which included Bianchi’s family.
“Incredible day, but I think this victory is for Jules,” said Vettel, who further cemented his third spot in the championship standings.
“We know that it has been an incredibly tough week.
“I think for all of us it is very difficult, so this one is for him, and especially all the people at Ferrari and all the Ferrari fans. We know he would have been a part of the team and part of our family.”
Reflecting on his victory Vettel admitted the Safety Car period had caused him some concern, but was quick to credit the team for a recovery after struggling for pace in Friday practice.
“There was definitely from our point of view no need for that,” he added.
“It (Safety Car) made it more interesting, we had a great start and it was crucial to get in lead straight away, the car was difficult but great to drive.
“We showed great pace so thank you very much to the team for the recovery since Friday, today it came together and despite the safety car we still managed to win, this one is for the team too.”
Although pleased with a second triumph of the season, Ferrari boss Maurizio Arrivabene was adamant the team must continue to work hard on developing the car to maintain its run of success.
“It was a good victory it was a great start of our two guys it was a pity for Kimi (Raikkonen) because he had that (MGUK) problem,” said Arrivabene.
“I think we are in a good way but we must keep our feet on the ground and our head down.”