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Lewis Hamilton had his final race for Mercedes after a long and momentary span of 11 years. The 7 time World Champion is all set to join Ferrari next year in what can be referred as one of the biggest plot twists in the Formula One World. Lewis Hamilton’s final race for Mercedes at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was a poignant moment, as the seven-time World Champion bid farewell to the Silver Arrows after a remarkable 12-season partnership. Hamilton, starting from 16th on the grid, fought his way through the field to finish an impressive fourth, passing his teammate George Russell on the final lap. Though he didn’t clinch a podium in his last outing for Mercedes, his performance earned glowing praise from his team principal, Toto Wolff. He finished fourth in Abu Dhabi Grand prix where Lando Norris from McLaren emerged champion, while Ferrari finished double podium.
Team Radio: A Farewell to an Icon
Following the race, Hamilton had a final, heartfelt exchange with his long-time race engineer, Peter Bonnington, and team principal Toto Wolff, marking the end of an era. After completing the race and performing donuts in front of the grandstand to celebrate, Hamilton took a moment to reflect on his incredible journey with Mercedes.
Bonnington, clearly emotional, began their final radio conversation:
Bonnington: “End of an era. I’ve got to say mate, it’s been epic working with you.”
Wolff, deeply moved by Hamilton’s performance, praised him:
Wolff: “Lewis, that was the drive of a World Champion. That’s the drive of a World Champion. Amazing.”
Hamilton, in his typically humble manner, responded with gratitude:
Hamilton: “Thanks, Toto. That was fun.”
A Journey Filled with Gratitude
Despite not securing a podium finish in his farewell race, Hamilton’s connection with Mercedes was the focus of the emotional exchange.
Bonnington continued to express his appreciation for their journey together:
Bonnington: “Good man. Stellar job today, bud. But, yeah, it’s been a pleasure all the way.”
Hamilton, reflecting on their shared accomplishments, responded with deep gratitude:
Hamilton: “The pleasure’s been mine. Yeah, Bono, we dreamed alone but together, we believed. As a team, we achieved things that…”
He continued, acknowledging the support of his team throughout the years:
Hamilton: “Thank you for all the courage, the determination, and the passion, and for seeing me and supporting me. What started out as a leap of faith turned into a journey into the history books. We did everything together, and I’m so, so grateful to everyone, both here and back at the factory. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. All the best.”
A Farewell from Mercedes
Bonnington, visibly moved, responded with his own heartfelt message to Hamilton:
Bonnington: “Thank you, Lewis. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’ve been so grateful to have been a part of this chapter of your life, and best of luck for the next one.”
Hamilton, in a final show of affection, expressed his love for the team:
Hamilton: “Yeah, I love you guys, I really, really do.”
Wolff added a final, emotional note:
Wolff: “We love you too, and you’re always going to be part of that family – and if we can’t win, you should win.”
A Legacy of Triumph and Gratitude
As Hamilton moves on to a new chapter with Ferrari, his departure from Mercedes marks the end of one of the most successful eras in Formula 1 history. His final race was not just a performance on the track but a heartfelt farewell to a team that played a pivotal role in his career. The journey Hamilton and Mercedes shared will be remembered as one of the most iconic partnerships in F1 history.
