Lewis Hamilton said an emotional goodbye to Mercedes in his final F1 race with the team at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The legendary partnership ended on a high note as Hamilton celebrated with iconic donut spins after the race, eliciting cheers from the crowd. Starting from 16th on the grid, he demonstrated his exceptional skill and tenacity by fighting his way back to secure a remarkable fourth-place finish.
Following the race, Hamilton knelt in front of his car, a heartwarming gesture representing the end of a remarkable 12-year journey with Mercedes. This moment symbolized the conclusion of an era in which Hamilton achieved 84 race victories and six world championships with the team, in addition to his first title with McLaren in 2008. His time with Mercedes is celebrated as one of the most dominant periods in Formula 1 history, even eclipsing Michael Schumacher’s iconic era with Ferrari from 1996 to 2006.
An emotional Hamilton confessed that it was “difficult to let go” of Mercedes as their successful Formula 1 partnership came to a fitting conclusion at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
“So I think when I stopped the car I just wanted to embrace the moment because it’s the last time I’m going to step into Mercedes and represent them. It’s been the greatest honor of my life, so I think when I knelt next to it was just about giving thanks, firstly thanking my own spirit for continuing to push and thanking everyone who powered and built that car. I’m proud of everyone.” Hamilton said.
First and last pic.twitter.com/Smo4EhwdP5
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) December 8, 2024
Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes has loomed over him all year, having informed the team of his decision to leave before a competitive lap was completed in 2024. He concluded the season in seventh place in the drivers’ standings, marking the lowest finish of his 18-year F1 career.
The Hamilton-Mercedes partnership concluded on an emotional note, but the prospect of his new journey with Ferrari adds fresh excitement to the world of Formula 1. Fans are keen to see if Hamilton, now following in Schumacher’s path, can reach another historic milestone in his illustrious career. While he begins this new chapter, his extraordinary legacy with Mercedes remains unmatched, cementing his lasting impact on the sport.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
