Lewis Hamilton will shut a historic chapter this weekend as he bids farewell to Mercedes on the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, concluding a exceptional 12-year partnership that yielded six world titles and solidified his legacy as considered one of System 1’s best drivers.

Sunday’s race at Yas Marina marks the top of a 26-year affiliation with the Mercedes model, together with 84 race victories (doubtlessly 85 if he pulls off one last triumph) and 6 drivers’ championships with the Silver Arrows. In 2025, Hamilton will embark on a brand new journey with Ferrari, aiming to reignite the spark that after made him the game’s most profitable driver.

The choice to depart Mercedes shocked many inside the group final winter, resulting in a season overshadowed by his struggles with the present technology of ground-effect automobiles. In the meantime, Pink Bull’s dominance below Max Verstappen has challenged Hamilton’s quest for an eighth world title, with McLaren and Ferrari battling for supremacy because the season concludes.

Regardless of latest frustrations, Hamilton leaves Mercedes with pleasure and nostalgia. Staff principal Toto Wolff mirrored on the importance of Hamilton’s departure. “It’s a celebration of all the things we’ve achieved. Lewis will at all times be a part of the Mercedes household. We’ll honour an unparalleled story in Abu Dhabi earlier than visiting our key centres in Kuala Lumpur, Stuttgart, Brixworth, and Brackley.”

Wolff emphasised that the group’s focus stays on giving Hamilton a becoming send-off. “Nothing can take away 12 unbelievable years. That’s the reminiscence we’ll cherish, not a difficult season.”