Toto Wolff bid an emotional farewell to Lewis Hamilton as the seven-time world champion prepares to embark on a new chapter with Ferrari next season. The heartfelt message marked the end of a 12-year partnership that transformed Formula One, delivering unparalleled success for Mercedes and cementing Hamilton’s status as one of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history.
Hamilton’s final race for Mercedes at the season finale in Abu Dhabi was a momentous occasion, capped by a stunning comeback drive. Reflecting on his journey with the team, Hamilton described the experience as a leap of faith that led to rewriting the history books. His departure signals the conclusion of an era defined by six drivers’ championships and eight constructors’ titles.
The bond between Hamilton and Wolff has been instrumental in their success. Wolff, who joined Mercedes in 2013 the same year as Hamilton shared a profound camaraderie with the driver. Their shared values and commitment to diversity and inclusion fostered a unique partnership. In a voice message released after the Abu Dhabi race, Wolff spoke of their journey with deep emotion and gratitude.
“The moment is here we all knew was coming,” Wolff began. “We’ve raced the last lap. The longest and most successful partnership in Formula One history. Who would have thought that when we started the journey?” He encouraged Hamilton to embrace his next challenge with Ferrari, emphasizing the importance of surrounding himself with the right people. “Find your people, not just the ones who work with you or sign your contract. The ones who dream with you, who fight with you, who have your back.”
Wolff reflected on the impact of their collaboration, highlighting how it extended beyond mere victories. “When you find your people, you don’t just beat the world, you change it,” he said. As Hamilton moves on, Wolff assured him that his Mercedes family would always stand by him. “We will always be your people, because every dream needs a team. Take care, my friend. See you on track.”
Hamilton, in his farewell remarks, acknowledged the significance of his time with Mercedes. His move to Ferrari represents not just a career shift but a new chapter in his illustrious career, one he is approaching with optimism and determination.
Meanwhile, the aftermath of the Abu Dhabi race also brought attention to Max Verstappen’s punishment for swearing during a press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix earlier in the season. The FIA has mandated that Verstappen participate in a grassroots development program with young drivers during the FIA awards ceremony in Kigali, Rwanda. The program will involve working with junior competitors, using an affordable cross car designed to promote accessibility to motorsport.
Verstappen, a four-time world champion, has openly criticized the FIA’s decision, calling it “silly” and expressing frustration with the governing body’s management of the sport. His dissatisfaction was evident in the monosyllabic responses he gave during subsequent press conferences, as well as his candid remarks to the media outside official events.
The FIA’s decision has sparked debate, with the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association issuing an open letter demanding that drivers be treated with greater respect and maturity. The letter remains unanswered, but it underscores the growing tension between drivers and the sport’s governing body.
Despite his frustrations, Verstappen is set to attend the Kigali ceremony, where he will receive his trophy for a fourth consecutive world championship. His presence at the event is expected to generate significant attention, not only for his achievements but also for the broader issues surrounding driver relations with the FIA.
As the curtain falls on the 2024 season, the sport finds itself at a crossroads, with one of its greatest partnerships ending and tensions simmering within its ranks. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari promises to add a new dimension to the competition, while Verstappen’s ongoing grievances highlight the challenges facing Formula One in balancing governance and the drivers’ autonomy.
