Lewis Hamilton reflected on his time with Mercedes, describing it as the greatest honor of his life after concluding his tenure with the team at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Following a stellar drive at the Yas Marina circuit, Hamilton expressed gratitude for his journey with the team while acknowledging the challenges of a turbulent year.
Hamilton’s performance in Abu Dhabi, where he climbed from 16th to finish fourth, was a fitting finale to his illustrious 12-season career with Mercedes. Since joining the team in 2013, Hamilton has secured six world titles and 84 race wins, solidifying one of the most successful partnerships in Formula 1 history. After the race, he paused to kneel beside his car, embracing the moment and reflecting on his journey.
“When I stopped the car, I just wanted to take it all in because it’s the last time I’ll represent Mercedes,” he shared. “Every time I got into the car this week, I knew it was one of the last, and it’s been tough to let go. I’m proud of every race, pole position, win, and championship we’ve achieved together. Kneeling beside the car was my way of giving thanks thanking my spirit for pushing through and appreciating everyone who powered and built this incredible machine.”
The 2021 season marked a pivotal moment for Hamilton and Mercedes. Having missed out on an eighth championship following a controversial finale in Abu Dhabi, the team faced challenges adapting to regulation changes in 2022. The subsequent seasons proved difficult, with the car often lacking consistency and balance. This year showed some improvement, but it remained an uphill battle as Hamilton and the team navigated his impending departure, announced at the start of the season.
“It’s been a turbulent year probably the longest of my life,” Hamilton admitted. “Knowing from the beginning that I was leaving made it emotionally challenging. It’s like living with someone you’ve told you’re leaving. There were ups and downs, but we finished strong today.”
Hamilton’s departure marks a new chapter as he joins Ferrari for the upcoming season, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled success with Mercedes. Despite the challenges, he exits on a high note, cherishing the memories and triumphs of their partnership.
Meanwhile, Lando Norris delivered a commanding performance to win the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, securing McLaren’s first constructors’ championship in 26 years. Starting from pole position, Norris held off both Ferraris under immense pressure to clinch the title. His teammate, Oscar Piastri, was eliminated from contention after a first-lap incident with Max Verstappen, leaving Norris to shoulder the responsibility of securing the championship.
“Today was a very special day for all of us,” Norris said. “It was ours to lose, and at times, it probably felt like it was slipping away. But to deliver this championship after 26 years is an incredible feeling. For Oscar and me to be part of this achievement is something we’re immensely proud of. Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces makes it all worth it.”
McLaren’s resurgence represents a significant milestone for the team, reflecting years of hard work and perseverance. Norris’s victory and the constructors’ championship are a testament to their progress, with the team finally reclaiming their place among the sport’s elite.
