Lewis Hamilton bid an emotional farewell to Mercedes, wrapping up a 12-year partnership that stands as the most successful driver-team collaboration in Formula 1 history. After a season full of challenges, the seven-time world champion finished his Mercedes journey with an impressive fourth-place finish in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, climbing 12 positions from a 16th-place start on the grid.
Reflecting on the conclusion of his Mercedes era, Hamilton described the 2024 season as both challenging and poignant. “It has been probably the longest year of my life, knowing from the beginning I was leaving,” Hamilton shared. “It’s like being in a relationship where you’ve told the other person you’re leaving, but you’re still living together for a year. Lots of ups and downs, but we finished on a high today.”
Hamilton’s 12 years with Mercedes are unparalleled in F1 history. During his tenure, he secured 84 race wins, six drivers’ championships, and an astounding 153 podium finishes. At 39 years old, Hamilton now looks ahead to the next chapter of his career with Ferrari, where he will join the team in 2025.
His final seasons with Mercedes saw Hamilton paired with George Russell, a fellow Briton and rising star in F1. This year, Russell outscored Hamilton in the drivers’ championship by 22 points. However, there were no hard feelings between the teammates.
“I felt like it was quite a fitting way to finish with Lewis, to be one second apart after these years,” Russell, 26, remarked. “I am happy he had a great weekend—he deserved it. I’ve learned so much from Lewis as a driver and a person, and I’m proud to have had these years.”
As Russell prepares to lead Mercedes in the upcoming seasons, he will team up with 18-year-old Italian rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli in 2025. Reflecting on Hamilton’s impact, Russell emphasized the importance of Hamilton’s example. “He’s taught me a lot about how to behave as a role model,” Russell said.
For Hamilton, 2024 marked a season of reflection and resilience. Despite describing the year as “turbulent,” his final race with Mercedes served as a reminder of his enduring talent and tenacity. Fans and teammates alike celebrated his remarkable contributions to the sport and the team.
