Lewis Hamilton’s heartfelt final radio message to Mercedes after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marks the end of a historic era. Read his emotional words to Toto Wolff and Peter Bonnington before his Ferrari transition.
Lewis Hamilton Bids Farewell to Mercedes in Abu Dhabi
Lewis Hamilton concluded his illustrious 12-season partnership with Mercedes in a dramatic fashion at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, finishing fourth after an extraordinary climb from 16th on the grid. While he narrowly missed out on a podium finish, team principal Toto Wolff hailed his performance as “the drive of a World Champion.”
The seven-time World Champion is set to join Ferrari next season, but not before delivering an emotional final radio exchange with Mercedes after his last race.
Hamilton’s Final Radio Message: A Tribute to Mercedes
After crossing the finish line at Yas Marina, Hamilton performed celebratory donuts on the start/finish straight, marking the end of his Mercedes journey. On the cooldown lap, he shared heartfelt messages with his long-time race engineer, Peter Bonnington, and team principal, Toto Wolff.
Toto Wolff:
“Lewis, that was the drive of a World Champion. Amazing.”
Lewis Hamilton:
“Thanks, Toto. That was fun.”
Peter Bonnington:
“Good man. Stellar job today, bud. But, yeah, it’s been a pleasure all the way.”
Lewis Hamilton:
“The pleasure’s been mine. Bono, we dreamed alone but together, we believed. As a team, we achieved things that…
“Thank you for all the courage, the determination, and the passion, and 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. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. All the best.”
Peter Bonnington:
“Thank you, Lewis. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’ve been so grateful to have been a part of this chapter of your life. Best of luck for the next one.”
Lewis Hamilton:
“Yeah, I love you guys, I really, really do.”
Toto 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.”
A Legendary Partnership Comes to an End
Hamilton and Mercedes leave behind a legacy that includes seven World Championships, countless victories, and records that redefined Formula 1 history. From daring strategies to remarkable consistency, their partnership represents one of the most successful eras in motorsport.
What’s Next for Hamilton?
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career. While his tenure with Mercedes ends, the bond remains strong, with Toto Wolff affirming that Hamilton will always be part of the Mercedes family.
As Hamilton gears up to don Ferrari red, fans worldwide anticipate whether he can bring his championship-winning prowess to the Scuderia and add another historic chapter to his illustrious career.
Key Takeaways:
- Hamilton delivered an emotional farewell to Mercedes after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
- His heartfelt messages to Toto Wolff and Peter Bonnington highlighted the bond shared over 12 seasons.
- Hamilton’s next chapter begins with Ferrari, aiming for continued success in Formula 1.
