Lewis Hamilton said an emotional farewell to his Mercedes team at the end of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The seven-times world champion won six of his titles with Mercedes since joining them in 2013. No driver in F1 history has started as many consecutive seasons with one team.
Sunday’s race marked Hamilton’s 245th grand prix start for the team, of which he has won 84.
He has started from pole position 73 times for them, but lined up a lowly 16th for his final race in a Mercedes following his elimination in the first round of qualifying yesterday. However he ran a strong race after starting on the hard tyres – the only driver to do so – and passed team mate George Russell on the final lap to finish fourth.
Despite finishing outside the podium places, Hamilton was invited to take part in the post-race celebrations after taking the chequered flag. As he drove back he thanked the team for their efforts.
“Thank you for all the courage, the determination and the passion for seeing me and supporting me,” he said. “What started out as a leap of faith turned into a journey into the history books.”
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Hamilton’s radio messages after his final race for Mercedes
| Bonnington | And that’s the end of an era. |
| Bonnington | I’ve got to say, it’s been epic working with you. |
| Wolff | Lewis that was the drive of a world champion. That’s the drive of a world champion. Amazing. |
| Hamilton | Thanks Toto. That was fun! |
| Bonnington | Good man. Stellar job today, bud. But yeah, it’s been a pleasure all the way. The tough times… |
| Hamilton | The pleasure’s been mine. Yeah, Bono. We dreamed alone but together. We believed. And as a team, we achieved things that only… Thank you for all the courage, the determination and the passion 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. From the bottom of my heart, all the best. |
| Bonnington | Thank you, Lewis. Yeah it’s been an amazing journey and I’ve been so grateful to be part of this chapter of your life. Best of luck for the next one. |
| Hamilton | I love you guys, I really, really do. |
| 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. |
| Bonnington | Lewis if you go chassis default 44 for Maddog. And if we could have HPP one position 12, strat mode 14, pick up as much rubber as you can on the fronts and we’ll see you on the grid, go to the grid, please. |
| Bonnington | Okay so Lewis if you could go to the grid and show us just what you’re made of. |
| Wolff | [Hamilton performing doughnuts] If you get disqualified, it’s still worth it. |
| Bonnington | Perfect, bud. Thank you, mate. |
Pictures: Hamilton’s post-race celebration
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