Lewis Hamilton endures a dismal F1 season as he prepares for a major team change

In the final race of the Formula 1 season, Lewis Hamilton faced a disappointing qualifying session, ultimately starting in 16th position at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This marked the conclusion of a storied partnership with Mercedes that began in 2013, during which Hamilton won six World Championships and amassed 84 race victories. The race was filled with emotion as Hamilton prepared to transition to Ferrari in 2025, reflecting on a career milestone after a challenging season. Overall, the event symbolized not only his personal journey but also the end of an era in Formula 1, given the unprecedented success achieved during his time with the Silver Arrows. The race itself was a showcase of McLaren’s resurgence, clinching their first Constructors' Championship since 1998, while Hamilton was visibly affected by his qualifying misfortune. He qualified 18th due to a bizarre incident involving a bollard, emphasizing the underlying frustration from the season that saw Hamilton struggle against rising competition, especially from his teammate George Russell. Despite starting far down the grid, Hamilton executed a remarkable comeback during the race, finishing in 4th place. His performance received praise from team principal Toto Wolff, underlining the enduring connection and respect between the driver and team, even as they parted ways. In the days leading up to the race, Hamilton openly communicated his battle with emotions, admitting that it had been a tumultuous year for him personally. The announcement of his move to Ferrari had caused tension within the Mercedes team, challenging Hamilton's focus as he navigated discussions about his departure. Fans and commentators alike expressed sentiments of nostalgia and reflection, recognizing Hamilton as a transformative figure in the sport. The farewell also sparked conversations around his legacy, particularly how he has promoted diversity and inclusion in a setting traditionally dominated by a homogeneous representation. Hamilton's final moments in the Mercedes garage and on the track were poignant, embodying the blend of triumph and challenge that characterized his time with the team. The emotional farewell was compounded by the celebrations from McLaren, who had previously struggled but turned their fortunes around dramatically over the past two seasons, marking a significant shift in the competitive landscape of Formula 1. As Hamilton embarks on this new chapter with Ferrari, both anticipation and speculation abound regarding his potential to reclaim the championship title he has long sought.