Lewis Hamilton Bids Emotional Farewell to Mercedes with Donuts, Drama, and a Final “Hammer Time”
It was a day of high emotions and unforgettable moments as Lewis Hamilton, the most successful driver in Formula 1 history, said goodbye to Mercedes in a way only he could. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked the end of an era for Hamilton and the Silver Arrows, a partnership that has defined the sport for over a decade. And what a send-off it was—donuts on the Yas Marina Circuit, heartfelt words over team radio, and a final salute to the crowd that has cheered him on for years.
Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari next season, wrapped up his 12-year stint with Mercedes in style. Starting from 16th on the grid, the seven-time world champion stormed through the field to finish fourth, a performance that showcased the grit and determination that have made him a legend. With 84 victories and six drivers’ championships under his belt during his time with Mercedes, Hamilton’s departure is nothing short of monumental.
After crossing the finish line, Hamilton performed celebratory donuts on the track before kneeling beside his car in a moment of reflection. He then climbed onto the car to wave to the crowd, soaking in the atmosphere one last time. Speaking to reporters after the race, Hamilton admitted that the reality of leaving Mercedes had finally hit him.
“Every moment that I’ve got in the car this week I’ve known that it’s one of the last,” Hamilton said. “It’s been really, really clear, and really hard to let go.”
“The Greatest Honour of My Life”
Hamilton didn’t hold back when describing what his time with Mercedes has meant to him. “It’s been the greatest honour of my life,” he said. “When I stopped the car, I just wanted to embrace the moment because it’s the last time I’m going to step into Mercedes and represent them.”
He went on to thank his team and reflect on the journey they’ve shared. “Firstly, I was thanking my own spirit for continuing to push, and thanking everyone that powered and built that car. I’m proud of everyone.”
Hamilton’s departure has been a long time coming. He informed Mercedes of his decision to join Ferrari before the 2024 season even began, making this year an emotional rollercoaster for both the driver and the team. Despite the challenges, Hamilton ended the season on a high note, with a thrilling last-lap overtake on teammate George Russell to secure fourth place in Abu Dhabi.
A Year of Highs and Lows
Reflecting on the season, Hamilton described it as “the longest year of my life.” He likened the experience to a relationship where both parties know it’s over but have to coexist for a while longer. “Lots of ups and downs, emotionally, but we finished off with a high today,” he said.
Hamilton also had the chance to hear the iconic phrase “it’s Hammer time” from his race engineer Peter ‘Bono’ Bonnington one last time. The phrase, which has become synonymous with Hamilton’s career, was a poignant reminder of the bond he shares with his team.
“I thought, ‘that’s the last I’m going to hear that’—it really clicked for me in that moment,” Hamilton said. He went on to praise Bonnington, calling him one of his closest friends and a constant source of support throughout his career. “He’s worked with Michael Schumacher, he’s worked with great drivers, but—as frustrating and painful as it can sometimes be—he’s stood by me every single day without fail.”
Looking Ahead to Ferrari
As Hamilton prepares to join Ferrari, he faces a new challenge: ending the team’s drivers’ championship drought, which dates back to Kimi Raikkonen’s 2007 title. The Scuderia came close to glory this year but were edged out by McLaren in a tight constructors’ championship battle, with Lando Norris taking victory in Abu Dhabi.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has drawn comparisons to Michael Schumacher, who famously revived the team’s fortunes in the early 2000s. If anyone can replicate that success, it’s Hamilton, whose talent and determination remain as strong as ever.
Key Moments from Hamilton’s Farewell
- Hamilton finished fourth in Abu Dhabi after starting 16th on the grid.
- He performed celebratory donuts and knelt beside his car in a moment of reflection.
- Hamilton described his time with Mercedes as “the greatest honour of my life.”
- He shared an emotional farewell with race engineer Peter ‘Bono’ Bonnington.
- Hamilton is set to join Ferrari next season, aiming to end their championship drought.
As the curtain falls on Hamilton’s Mercedes career, one thing is clear: his legacy with the team is unmatched. From record-breaking victories to unforgettable moments on and off the track, Hamilton and Mercedes have set a standard that will be hard to match. Now, all eyes turn to Ferrari, where Hamilton will look to write the next chapter of his storied career.
Originally Written by: N/A
