Lewis Hamilton’s illustrious stint at Mercedes came to an end after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix finished at the Yas Marina Circuit.
The seven-time world champion clinched six of his world titles with Mercedes after joining the team in 2013 and dominating most of the hybrid era.
Hamilton suffered during his final few years with the Anglo-German team. His two victories this year were the first for the Mercedes driver since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
Mercedes lacked the consistency to challenge for race wins over a campaign but did have some success, such as three wins in four races earlier this year.
The 39-year-old ended his time at the Brackley-based outfit with a storming drive from 16th on the grid to fourth place at the chequered flag in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to end the year.
Martin Brundle thought Hamilton’s drive in Abu Dhabi was vintage as he passed Russell on the last lap, around the outside at Turn 9.
Hamilton was very emotional at the end of the race, but IndyCar driver Alexander Rossi explained why the 39-year-old didn’t need such a significant celebration.
Lewis Hamilton didn’t deserve a ‘pity party’ ahead of move to Ferrari
Hamilton spent 12 years at Mercedes in a partnership that developed into the most successful driver and team combination in Formula 1.
He will join Ferrari next season, and Charles Leclerc may be nervous about Hamilton joining the team ahead of 2025.
Ferrari took a step forward this season and challenged for the Constructors’ Championship, which may allow Hamilton to win races next year if the Italian team build a competitive car.
READ MORE: Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton’s touching moment in the paddock after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Rossi explained he felt the celebrations around Hamilton’s final race at Mercedes were slightly over the top as he isn’t retiring and just moving to a different team.
He said on the Off Track with Hinch and Rossi podcast: “I’m a little tired of the stroking for Lewis. He’s not leaving. He’s just changing teams to arguably a more prestigious team, at least historically.
“And he is getting more money and is going to be probably more famous because he’s in red and representing the Scuderia. Why is it this pity party of, ‘thanks for everything, Lewis.’ Yes, he’s ending a legacy at Mercedes, but Mercedes should be more sad than anyone else.”
Lewis Hamilton needs to rediscover his form in qualifying at Ferrari
Hamilton has struggled in qualifying this season and ended the 24-race campaign without a pole position and just one front-row start.
Brundle feels Leclerc is the quickest driver in F1, which may motivate Hamilton to match him in qualifying, where the seven-time world champion has been so successful.
READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton’s former teammate says he’s ‘100%’ worried about ‘painful’ experience at Ferrari
The Ferrari has been a consistent car to drive on most tracks this season, as Leclerc won at Monaco and Italy, two venues requiring very different downforce levels.
This car’s traits may allow Hamilton to find a happy balance, and Ferrari’s new driver can rely on them throughout the year.
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