Lewis Hamilton bid an emotional farewell to Mercedes in his final Formula 1 race for the team during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The iconic partnership concluded in style, with Hamilton performing celebratory donut spins at the end of the race, drawing cheers from the crowd. Despite starting 16th on the grid, Hamilton showcased his skill and determination, making an impressive comeback to finish in fourth place.
After the race, Hamilton knelt in front of his car, a gesture symbolising the end of a remarkable 12-year journey with Mercedes. The moment marked the conclusion of an era that saw Hamilton secure 84 race wins and six world championships with the team, adding to his maiden title with McLaren in 2008. His tenure with Mercedes has been widely regarded as one of the most dominant in F1 history, surpassing even Michael Schumacher's legendary stint at Ferrari between 1996 and 2006.
McLaren’s
Lando Norris claimed victory in the season-ending race, while Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, despite a sixth-place finish in Abu Dhabi, had already clinched his fourth consecutive drivers' title last month in Las Vegas.
Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes has sparked immense excitement and speculation as he now embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari. Comparisons to Schumacher's move to Ferrari are inevitable, with many believing Hamilton could replicate the German legend's success at the iconic Italian team.
The Hamilton-Mercedes partnership ended on a poignant note, but the anticipation of his Ferrari chapter brings renewed excitement to the world of Formula 1. Fans are eager to see if Hamilton, now following in Schumacher's footsteps, can achieve another historic milestone in his career. As Hamilton moves forward, his legacy with Mercedes remains unparalleled, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.