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Charles Leclerc Hails Lewis Hamilton as an F1 Icon: ‘He’ll Never Lose It’ After Mercedes Era Ends

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
December 9, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Charles Leclerc Hails Lewis Hamilton as an F1 Icon: ‘He’ll Never Lose It’ After Mercedes Era Ends

Formula One F1 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - December 8, 2024 Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton after finishing fourth in his last race for Mercedes REUTERS/Amr Alfiky

Lewis Hamilton delivered a masterclass in his final race for Mercedes, climbing from 16th on the grid to finish a stunning fourth at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion bid an emotional farewell to the Brackley-based team, closing a 12-year chapter that redefined Formula 1 greatness.

Starting from P16 after a disappointing qualifying session that saw him collide with a bollard, Hamilton showcased the grit and determination that have defined his career. The 39-year-old unleashed a relentless drive through the field, powered by a perfectly timed strategy that saw him switch to mediums late in the race.

“I was just like, ‘Oh, it’s not going as well as I thought it would.’ But I didn’t give up. I just kept pushing,” Hamilton admitted after the race. “When we switched to the mediums, the car came alive. I had a massive gap to close, but it was one of the most memorable drives of my career.”

A Fitting Farewell to a Golden Era

Hamilton’s drive at Yas Marina marked the end of an era for Mercedes, where he claimed 84 wins, 78 poles, and six world championships since joining the team in 2013. His move to Ferrari in 2025 signifies the start of a new challenge, but the legacy he leaves behind at Mercedes is unparalleled.

Charles Leclerc, Hamilton’s future teammate at Ferrari, was effusive in his praise, highlighting the Briton’s indomitable spirit and legendary status in the sport. “Lewis is Lewis, and he will always remain Lewis,” said Leclerc. “He’s extremely talented—actually, talented isn’t the right word. He’s a legend of our sport. He’s never lost it, and he never will.”

A Rollercoaster Weekend in Abu Dhabi

Hamilton’s weekend got off to a rocky start with his Q1 elimination, but he refused to let disappointment dictate the narrative. A measured opening stint on hard tires kept him in contention, but it was his blistering pace on mediums in the second half of the race that turned heads.

“It was tough on the hard tires,” Hamilton explained. “But the mediums gave me confidence, and I just went for it. It felt amazing to make up those places and finish strong for the team.”

The race capped an emotional weekend for Hamilton, who performed celebratory donuts at the finish line and knelt beside his Mercedes in a poignant farewell. “Crossing the line and stepping out of the car one last time with this team… it was incredibly emotional,” Hamilton said. “I just wanted to soak it all in, thinking about everything we’ve achieved together. Mercedes will always be part of me.”

Looking Ahead to Ferrari

As Hamilton sets his sights on Ferrari, his partnership with Leclerc is already fueling anticipation for a formidable lineup in 2025. Both drivers have made it clear their mission is to return the Prancing Horse to its championship-winning glory.

For Mercedes, the challenge will be moving forward without the driver who brought them unprecedented success. Team Principal Toto Wolff called Hamilton’s tenure “the most successful partnership in Formula 1 history,” while his now-former teammate George Russell hailed him as “the greatest driver of all time.”

The End of an Era

Hamilton’s final race with Mercedes wasn’t just a performance; it was a statement. The Briton leaves behind a legacy of dominance, resilience, and an enduring bond with the Silver Arrows team. As he embarks on a new journey with Ferrari, the memories of his unparalleled success at Mercedes will remain etched in Formula 1 history.

The Yas Marina Grand Prix wasn’t just a race—it was the closing chapter of an era, the likes of which the sport may never see again.

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