After twelve seasons and six world titles, the most successful collaboration in Formula 1 comes to an end. Lewis Hamilton will drive his last Grand Prix for Mercedes in Abu Dhabi. The seven-time world champion leaves the team with an impressive record, but he anticipates that his departure will not have the luster he had hoped for.
No Spectacular Farewell in Abu Dhabi
Hamilton looks ahead to the season finale with mixed feelings and tries to be realistic about his chances: “I don’t think we’re ending the season on a high note,” says the Brit. “What’s important to me is how we approach the weekend. We’re giving it our best shot, but I’m not expecting miracles.”
The last three seasons have been a significant challenge for Hamilton and Mercedes. Since the rule changes in 2022, the car has not been able to compete for the title. However, Hamilton emphasizes that this difficult period does not overshadow his time with Mercedes. “Even if it ends like this, it doesn’t define the journey we’ve taken together. I’m giving it everything I’ve got.”
Disappointments in Qatar
Lewis Hamilton’s penultimate race for Mercedes, the Qatar Grand Prix, was far from smooth. A seventh-place start and a race filled with setbacks ultimately led to a twelfth-place finish. Penalty points for a false start and speeding in the pit lane added to the weekend’s woes. “It just didn’t go great, but these things happen,” the Briton candidly admitted.
His results in recent races reflect a broader issue: Lewis Hamilton has been struggling with the balance of the W14 for some time and often fails to impress in qualifying. “The car and I are not really in sync, which makes it difficult to make something beautiful out of it.”
Legacy
Despite recent setbacks, Hamilton remains proud of what he has achieved with Mercedes. Together, they made history and their collaboration became the most successful ever in the sport. “Don’t judge me by how often I fall, but by how often I get back up,” said the seven-time world champion defiantly. After his departure from Mercedes, Hamilton is setting his sights on a new adventure: a move to Ferrari. Although this season’s results were disappointing, his legacy at Mercedes remains untouched. “These last races change nothing about everything we have achieved together,” Hamilton stated.
