Lewis Hamilton has spoken emotionally on his last ever F1 weekend as a Mercedes driver. After 12 years with the Silver Arrows, that have yielded six of his seven world titles, the 39-year-old will leave for Ferrari following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina.
Hamilton has enjoyed 84 Grand Prix wins under Toto Wolff, and 78 pole positions.
And he opened up on his feelings after posing for the cameras with the Mercedes staff, including engineers and management figures, for the final time.
“That was our last team photo,” he said afterwards. “It’s hard to believe we’ve had 12 amazing years together, and it’s hard to believe that’s our last photo that we’re going to take as a whole team, as a group.
“And it’s such an honour and a privilege. I think to look back when I’m sitting on the car, I look back and see everyone’s face, everyone that’s been so hugely influential with the success that we’ve had over the years.”
Hamilton has long praised team members for contributing to his unparalleled success in the sport. And he said he’d remember the poignant moment for the remainder of his career.
“Had my back (the team) and supported me and hopefully vice versa. It’s a really proud moment. It’s one that I’ll definitely cherish. I think the first and the last (photo) will be the two that I cherish the most.”
Hamilton’s hopes of a fairytale finish with Mercedes this weekend appear far-fetched though. He was only fifth quickest in FP2 on Friday, and was also the subject of an FIA investigation following an incident with Lando Norris in FP1.
The British driver appeared to impede hus rival at Turn 16, forcing his compatriot to take evasive action. However, following a meeting with stewards, it was confirmed he will not face any further action.
Hamilton, who started his career at McLaren, arrived in Abu Dhabi seventh in the drivers’ standings. The only way he can improve that position is to take the chequered flag, and also hope that team-mate George Russell is unable to score a single point.
Regardless, more emotional scenes are expected when he climbs out of his W15 vehicle for the last time on Sunday. Team principal Wolff has already revealed Hamilton has gifted him with a special motorbike to mark their stint together.