Lewis Hamilton's father expressed his sadness that Michael Schumacher could not be at the Eifel Grand Prix to see his son equal his record tally of Formula One victories.

Mercedes driver Hamilton took the chequered flag for the 91st time at the Nurburgring on Sunday to draw level with the legendary Schumacher.

There was a touching moment when the German great's son, Mick, presented the six-time F1 world champion with one of his father's helmets after his record-equalling win.

Hamilton's father, Anthony, spoke of his pride over his son's achievements, but revealed his sadness that Michael Schumacher could not be present due to the serious injuries he suffered in a skiing accident in 2013.

He told Sky Sports News: "While it was an exciting day and certainly an honour to receive that from Mick Schumacher, it's also tinged with a bit of sadness because Michael's not here."

Championship leader Hamilton was taken aback by the gesture from Formula 2 driver Mick Schumacher, who was denied an F1 practice drive on Friday due to bad weather.

"Wow, I'm really, really honoured man. Thank you so much, I really appreciate that thank you," said the Briton.

"I don't even know what to say. I mean, when you grow up watching someone, you genuinely idolise them in terms of the quality of the driver they are and what they're able to continuously do, year on year and race on race, week on week with their team.

"I remember playing as Michael on the game, Grand Prix 2 I think it was.

"Seeing his dominance for so long, I don't think anyone – and especially me – could imagine that I'd be anywhere near Michael in terms of records. It's an incredible honour."

Hamilton needs one more world championship win to equal Schumacher's haul of seven.