The Formula One paddock witnessed the end of an extraordinary era at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as Lewis Hamilton, the most successful driver in F1 history, donned the Mercedes colors for the last time. Hamilton’s 12-year journey with the Silver Arrows culminated in a poignant display of passion, excellence, and gratitude that marked the close of a partnership that redefined the sport.
On Sunday, Hamilton’s farewell drive at Yas Marina was more than just a race; it was a celebration of an iconic legacy and a bittersweet goodbye to a team that had shaped the career of one of the greatest athletes the world has ever seen.
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A Legacy Written in Gold and Silver
Lewis Hamilton’s association with Mercedes is synonymous with dominance. Over the past 12 years, the Briton and the German powerhouse amassed an unparalleled record, etching their names into the annals of motorsport history. Together, they claimed:
- 6 Drivers’ Championships: Hamilton’s relentless pursuit of excellence secured six titles for himself and countless accolades for the team.
- 8 Constructors’ Championships: The seamless synergy between Hamilton and Mercedes ensured the team remained a step ahead of their rivals.
- 84 Wins: Each victory showcased Hamilton’s mastery behind the wheel.
- 78 Poles and 153 Podiums: These numbers are a testament to Hamilton’s consistency and skill.
Hamilton’s career statistics are staggering. Including his time with McLaren, he boasts an incredible 105 victories, making him the winningest driver in Formula One history. Every lap of his illustrious career was powered by the roar of a Mercedes engine, a bond that speaks volumes about the trust and collaboration between driver and manufacturer.
Imagine… Thank You, Lewis pic.twitter.com/mG90j2cvqA
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) December 5, 2024
The Farewell Race: A Performance Worthy of a Champion
Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was a microcosm of Hamilton’s career: challenging, dramatic, and ultimately inspiring. Starting 16th on the grid after a bizarre incident in qualifying that saw a plastic bollard lodge itself under his car, Hamilton’s race seemed destined for mediocrity. But, as he has done time and time again, the seven-time world champion defied expectations.
Hamilton charged through the field with the determination and skill that have defined his career. With 15 laps remaining, he was 14 seconds behind teammate George Russell. But the man known for his “hammer time” mentality found another gear.
In a display of masterful driving, Hamilton reeled in his compatriot, passing him on the final lap to secure a fourth-place finish. It was a drive that exemplified the grit and brilliance of a champion unwilling to settle for anything less than his best.
“I was just giving absolutely everything to the car,” Hamilton reflected post-race. “I wanted to finish on as much of a high and give every ounce of me to the team as they’ve given me all of these years.”
As Hamilton crossed the finish line, the radio waves were filled with emotional tributes. His race engineer, Peter Bonnington, delivered one last call of “Hammer time,” a phrase that has become emblematic of their partnership. Team principal Toto Wolff declared the drive as “the performance of a world champion.”
Emotions Run High at Yas Marina
The gravity of the moment was not lost on anyone in the paddock. Hamilton’s farewell to Mercedes was marked by poignant gestures and heartfelt words. After completing a series of celebratory doughnut spins for the fans, Hamilton stepped out of his car, embraced it, and kissed it—a symbolic gesture of farewell to the machine that had carried him to unparalleled heights.
He shared a touching embrace with race winner Lando Norris, whose victory also secured a constructors’ title for McLaren—the first in 26 years for the team where Hamilton’s F1 journey began. It was a full-circle moment, uniting Hamilton’s past and present in an emotional tableau.
Speaking to the media, Hamilton admitted that saying goodbye to Mercedes was far harder than he had anticipated. “It’s a beautiful day, a very strange feeling,” he said. “I can’t really put in words what I’m feeling at the moment, but ultimately just gratitude.”
Hamilton’s departure was marked by the team’s unwavering support. “Lewis, you will always be part of the family,” Wolff assured him, promising that Mercedes would cheer for him in his new chapter with Ferrari.
