Hill applauds Hamilton's first win

Former world champion Damon Hill has praised Lewis Hamilton following the Briton's maiden Formula One victory in Canada on Sunday

Hamilton needed just six Grands Prix to climb onto the top step of the podium, also moving to the top of the championship standings, eight points clear of McLaren teammate Fernando Alonso.

Although Hamilton has enjoyed a sensational season so far, Hill believes the British driver's achievements should not be underestimated.

"People should not underestimate what he has achieved in an incredibly short space of time," said Hill.

"Yes, he's with a good team, and yes, he's got a good car, but to be winning Grands Prix, and be putting in performances like that race after race, takes something special.

"He may be young and in his first season, but this guy is the real deal. If you're good enough in this sport, you're old enough - and boy is Lewis good enough.

"He's leading the world championship and winning races, so his confidence will be sky high. He's now got a great chance of winning the British Grand Prix, in front of his home crowd at Silverstone. And he's shown he can handle the pressure.

"We shouldn't get too carried away, but we could be looking at the next British world champion."