The 39-year-old Formula 1 icon Lewis Hamilton, who will don Ferrari red in 2025, left the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi amidst emotional farewells and poignant gestures. In his final race for Mercedes, Hamilton delivered a stunning drive from 16th on the grid to finish fourth, marking the end of a 12-year partnership that redefined the sport.
From a Leap of Faith to Legendary Heights
After a qualifying mishap saw a bollard lodged under his car, Hamilton started the race in P16. Despite the setback, the seven-time world champion put on a masterclass, overtaking his teammate George Russell on the final lap and reminding the world why he is regarded as one of the greatest in Formula 1 history.
“We dreamed a lot, but together we believed,” Hamilton said after the race. “Thank you for all the courage, determination, passion, and support. What started as a leap of faith turned into a journey into the history books. We did it together, and I am so grateful to everyone.”
After crossing the finish line, Hamilton performed celebratory doughnut spins, kissed his car, and bowed to the crowd, soaking in the final moments of his storied Mercedes tenure.
An Unparalleled Legacy
Hamilton’s partnership with Mercedes yielded unparalleled success: six drivers’ titles, eight constructors’ championships, 84 victories, 78 pole positions, and 153 podiums. These achievements are part of a career that also includes a 2008 title with McLaren, bringing his total wins to an astonishing 105—all powered by Mercedes engines.
Team principal Toto Wolff hailed Hamilton’s final performance as “the drive of a world champion” and assured him he would forever remain a part of the Mercedes family. “Lewis, we’ll always be cheering for you when we can’t win ourselves,” Wolff said.
Saying Goodbye: A Long and Emotional Journey
Hamilton admitted that his farewell to Mercedes had been far more challenging than he had anticipated. “It’s a beautiful day but also a very strange feeling,” he confessed. “I can’t really put into words what I’m feeling, but ultimately it’s gratitude.”
During the race, Hamilton recalled the iconic phrase, “hammer time,” signaling the peak of his attack mode. “When I heard it, I realized it would be the last time. That’s when it truly hit me,” he told Sky Sports. “I gave absolutely everything to the car today, just as I’ve done for the team all these years.”
A Warm Send-Off, and a New Chapter Ahead
Hamilton’s parting from Mercedes was marked by respect and camaraderie, as he embraced race winner Lando Norris, who secured McLaren’s first constructors’ title in 26 years. The sight of Hamilton in red during the pre-race driver’s parade served as a symbolic transition to his next challenge at Ferrari.
As the most successful driver in F1 history embarks on this new journey, his legacy at Mercedes remains indelible. The partnership, built on trust, talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence, leaves behind a record unmatched in the sport’s history.
For fans, teammates, and rivals alike, Hamilton’s final moments with Mercedes were a reminder of the immense impact he has had on the team—and the sport as a whole.
“I love you guys,” Hamilton declared. And the feeling, from the world of motorsport, is mutual.
