Lewis Hamilton delivered a fitting final performance for Mercedes at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking the end of his illustrious decade-long partnership with the Silver Arrows. Despite starting from 16th after a disastrous qualifying session, Hamilton fought his way through the pack, ultimately finishing fourth, overtaking teammate George Russell in a dramatic final-lap move.
A Sentimental Farewell– Lewis Hamilton
After crossing the line, Hamilton emerged from his car and took a moment to kneel beside his W14, patting the car that had become a symbol of his incredible journey with Mercedes. It was an emotional tribute to the team and the vehicle that helped him achieve 82 wins and six world championships.
“When I stopped the car, I just wanted to embrace the moment,” Hamilton shared. “This car, this team—it’s been the greatest honor of my life to represent Mercedes. Every pole, every win, every championship we’ve had together, it’s been extraordinary.”
A Race to Remember
Hamilton’s drive was a testament to his resilience and skill. After exiting Q1 due to an issue with an errant bollard, his recovery was nothing short of impressive. A daring outside pass on Russell showcased Hamilton’s trademark racing brilliance, leaving fans with one last unforgettable display of his talent.
“It wasn’t the fairytale ending we hoped for,” Hamilton reflected. “But every lap, I gave it everything. That final pass on George? It felt like a fitting goodbye.”
From McLaren to Mercedes: A Legacy Cemented
When Hamilton made the move from McLaren to Mercedes in 2013, many questioned the decision. At the time, Mercedes was still building itself into a dominant force in Formula 1. But together, Hamilton and Mercedes transformed the sport, dominating the turbo-hybrid era and creating one of the most successful partnerships in motorsport history.
“I remember meeting Niki Lauda and making the decision,” Hamilton recalled. “It was a leap of faith, but it was the best decision of my life.”
The Highs and Lows
Hamilton’s time at Mercedes wasn’t without challenges. From fierce battles with Nico Rosberg to the heartbreak of losing the 2021 title under controversial circumstances, Hamilton’s career with the team was filled with defining moments. His resilience, adaptability, and determination raised the bar for Formula 1 excellence.
However, 2024 brought new challenges, including Hamilton’s move to Ferrari for 2025. He admitted that the transition was emotionally difficult, particularly in his relationships within Mercedes.
“The first meeting with Toto Wolff this year was awkward,” Hamilton admitted. “I wasn’t at my best handling it, but the bond we’ve built over the years is unshakable.”
A New Chapter with Ferrari
As Hamilton prepares to join Ferrari, he acknowledges the significance of leaving Mercedes, comparing it to the legacy of Michael Schumacher with the Scuderia.
“This is the end of an era,” Hamilton said. “But I’ll always carry these memories and relationships with me. What we achieved together may never be matched.”
A Legacy Secured
Hamilton’s final race with Mercedes is the end of a golden era in Formula 1, marking the closing of one of the sport’s most iconic partnerships. As he moves to Ferrari, his place in F1 history is assured. For Mercedes, the challenge will now be to forge a future without the driver who helped define their dominance.
As Hamilton walked away from his W14 for the final time, his gesture of gratitude captured the essence of his legacy—a career built on passion, resilience, and an unyielding drive to achieve greatness.
