Lewis Hamilton Bids Farewell to Mercedes

Posted : 05 December 2024

Lewis Hamilton will bid farewell to Mercedes at this weekend's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking the end of a 12-year era with the team that helped him secure six world titles. As he prepares to join Ferrari, where Italy hopes he can recapture the form that made him the most successful driver in Formula One history, all eyes will be on the floodlit Yas Marina Circuit for the season finale. This race also has significant implications for the constructors' championship, with McLaren holding a slim 21-point lead over Ferrari.

The seven-time world champion's departure from Mercedes after a 26-year association with the brand will undoubtedly evoke mixed emotions. Hamilton, who has been a cornerstone of Mercedes' dominance, will leave a team that has seen great success in recent years.

Despite struggles in the current "ground effect" era, including frustration in races like Brazil and Qatar, Hamilton's legacy at Mercedes remains undeniable. Team principal Toto Wolff highlighted the team's accomplishments during this period, calling it a celebration of an unparalleled story in Abu Dhabi.

As Hamilton embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari, he is motivated by the prospect of reclaiming the form that made him a dominant force in Formula One. Ferrari, desperate to win their first constructors' title in 16 years, hopes Hamilton can help deliver this elusive championship, which has been out of reach since 2008. McLaren, who lead Ferrari by 21 points, have not won the title since 1998, so this final race is critical for both teams.

Hamilton's decision to move to Ferrari was influenced by the team's offer of a contract until 2026, something Mercedes was not willing to provide. This new contract will give Hamilton the chance to continue his pursuit of an eighth world title while promoting diversity and inclusion within the sport. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur expressed no concerns about Hamilton’s performance, citing his impressive drive in Las Vegas as evidence that Hamilton’s speed is still intact.

As the season culminates in Abu Dhabi, Hamilton's determination to "rise again" remains evident, despite recent setbacks. Meanwhile, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, who is set to leave for Williams, will also aim for a strong finish to the season as he and Charles Leclerc work to close the gap to McLaren. While McLaren are the favorites for the constructors' title, the weekend promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a season full of drama and high stakes.

Lewis Hamilton Bids Farewell to Mercedes

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