F1 news: Lewis Hamilton’s emotional farewell to Mercedes - an historic chapter closes

Lewis Hamilton is set to race in his 246th and final race as a Mercedes driver at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend.

Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo reflects on Hamilton’s final chapter with Mercedes and the exciting new journey that awaits him with Ferrari.

The end of an era

This weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marks the end of an extraordinary era in Formula 1 as Lewis Hamilton races for the final time with Mercedes. 

After 12 years of unparalleled success, including six of his seven world championships, the iconic partnership between the Briton and the Silver Arrows will come to a close under the Yas Marina Circuit lights. 

Next season, Hamilton will don Ferrari red, embarking on a bold new chapter in his illustrious career. 

A message from the heart 

Ahead of the season finale, Hamilton shared an emotional message on social media, reflecting on his journey with Mercedes. 

"This is really it. My last race with [Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 team]," he wrote. "What we’ve built together over the years is nothing short of historic.

“This won’t be the last time I thank Mercedes, but going into my final race with this team is really hitting me now. It’s really the end of an era.” 

Hamilton's heartfelt words captured the sentiment of an emotional farewell to a team with which he achieved record-breaking success. 

Since joining Mercedes in 2013, Hamilton has become the most successful driver in the sport’s history, earning 84 of his 105 race wins and countless podium finishes with the team.

READ MORE: UCLA Bruins take first-ever top spot in USA Today women’s college basketball rankings

A legacy beyond racing 

Hamilton’s legacy with Mercedes transcends on-track accomplishments. 

As F1's only black driver, he uses his platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion - both within the team and the wider sport. 

Initiatives such as Mercedes' "Accelerate 25" program, which aims to increase representation in their workforce, have been directly influenced by Hamilton's efforts. 

Reflecting on his impact, Hamilton stated: “The thing I’m most proud of...is the work we’ve done with diversity and inclusion." 

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff echoed this sentiment, noting Hamilton’s transformative influence. 

“He gave impulses, changed perspectives, and made us all more aware of our responsibilities in fighting discrimination,” Wolff said. 

A season of challenges 

Hamilton’s final season with Mercedes has been marked by struggles on the track. 

While moments of brilliance, such as victories at Silverstone and Spa, offered glimpses of promise, the campaign was marred by inconsistency and challenges adapting to F1’s current technical regulations. 

A disappointing 12th-place finish in Qatar epitomised a year in which Hamilton was often outperformed by team-mate George Russell. 

Despite the tough season, Hamilton and Mercedes remain focused on celebrating their historic partnership. 

"Nothing is going to take away 12 incredible years," Wolff emphasised.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Darts analysis: The transformation of the sport over the last decade

Looking ahead to Ferrari 

Hamilton's move to Ferrari represents a daring new chapter in his career. 

The Scuderia, aiming to end their Constructors' championship drought since 2008, see Hamilton as a key piece in their resurgence. 

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur expressed confidence in Hamilton's ability to bring success to Maranello, where the 38-year-old will chase an unprecedented eighth world title. 

The move to Ferrari also symbolises a fresh start for Hamilton, who has always harboured dreams of driving for the iconic team. 

With a reported $65 million annual contract and a multi-year deal, Hamilton is poised to redefine his legacy. 

A farewell fit for a champion 

As Hamilton prepares to take the grid for the final time in Mercedes colours, the team has vowed to make the weekend a celebration of their shared achievements. 

Mercedes’ official statement reflected on the partnership’s impact, saying: “As well as his achievements on the track, he has played a huge part in our history off the track too.” 

For Hamilton, the emotions of leaving a team he helped shape into a Formula 1 powerhouse are undeniable. 

Yet, he remains determined to end the season - and his Mercedes tenure - on a high. 

“It’s not how you fall, it’s how you get back up,” Hamilton said, looking ahead to his next challenge with Ferrari. 

As the curtain falls on this remarkable chapter, the world of motorsport bids farewell to one of its greatest team-driver combinations in history, while eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari red.

READ NEXT: Arsenal vs Manchester United analysis: FA Cup clash rekindles iconic rivalry