Lewis Hamilton reveals emotional departure from Mercedes likening it to a breakup

In the United Arab Emirates, Lewis Hamilton participated in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking his last race as a driver for the Mercedes team. This event took place in early December 2024, following a tumultuous season where Hamilton and Mercedes faced challenges due to new regulations introduced in 2022. Throughout his 12 seasons with the team, Hamilton achieved significant milestones, including six World Championships and 84 race victories. However, his final year was particularly difficult as he grappled with the emotional toll of leaving a team that was central to his success. On race day, Hamilton finished fourth, showcasing his talent by driving from 16th on the grid. After the race, he reflected on his time with Mercedes, expressing gratitude for the experiences and success they shared. The emotional farewell was both triumphant and poignant for Hamilton, who referred to his time with Mercedes as the greatest honor of his life. He acknowledged that saying goodbye was challenging, especially after he revealed his intentions to leave the team before the season commenced. The year had been filled with ups and downs as both the driver and the team adjusted to the idea of separation while still competing together. He compared the experience to living with a romantic partner after announcing a breakup, describing it as a turbulent emotional journey culminating in a strong finish. Hamilton also took a moment after the race to express appreciation for everyone involved in building and powering his car. He knelt beside his vehicle on the start-finish straight, using that moment to reflect on his achievements with the team, including every race, pole position, and championship title they secured together. The emotional weight of that moment underscored the profound impact that his career with Mercedes had on him, despite the difficulties they faced in recent seasons. The race itself ended with Lando Norris of McLaren winning, a victory that secured the constructors’ championship for the team, marking their first such title in 26 years. This outcome adds another layer to the conclusion of Hamilton's career with Mercedes, emphasizing both his past successes and the new dynamics unfolding in the sport as he prepares to join Ferrari for the upcoming season. The contrasting fortunes of Hamilton's farewell and Norris' triumph encapsulate a significant moment in Formula 1 history, ushering in a new era for both drivers and teams alike.