An emotional Lewis Hamilton said drawing level with Michael Schumacher’s Formula One victory record is beyond his wildest dreams.

Hamilton took the 91st win of his career at Sunday’s Eifel Grand Prix, 14 years and 10 days after Schumacher drove to his final victory in China.

For most it seemed inconceivable that Schumacher’s extraordinary tally would be beaten, but Hamilton can become the most decorated driver the sport has seen with a record-equalling seventh world championship almost certain to follow this year.

“Of course I can set goals and I will continue to charge on and see what is possible,” said Hamilton, whose current Mercedes deal is due to expire at the end of the year.

“I love the sport, the smell of it, the whole aura and atmosphere it creates, and it is going to be difficult to let it go.

“While I am older than these guys, I feel as young as them in spirit. That will change when I start seeing grey hairs, but for now, I am good.”

It was another sobering day for Hamilton’s one-time rival, Sebastian Vettel. The four-time world champion spun en route to finishing outside the points in 11th.

George Russell was taken out of the race by Kimi Raikkonen after the veteran Finn, in his record-breaking 323rd appearance, sent the Williams driver on to one wheel following a clumsy collision at the first corner.