End of an Era: Sir Lewis Hamilton bids farewell to Mercedes
As the sun dipped below the Qatari desert and the floodlights illuminated the Lusail International Circuit, Sir Lewis Hamilton took to the track in a race that felt like the turning of a page. This was no ordinary Grand Prix; it was Hamilton’s penultimate race with Mercedes, the team with which he redefined Formula 1, and his final collaboration with IWC Schaffhausen.
His long-term adversary Max Verstappen controlled the Qatar Grand Prix from start to finish, having already secured a fourth straight World Championship title. As Verstappen hogs the limelight, the curtain call is up on the 12-year Hamilton-Mercedes marriage.
Mercedes farewell
Hamilton’s focus now shifts to the season’s final race and his farewell with Mercedes before his move to Ferrari. While he expressed frustration with the car’s struggles earlier in the year, Hamilton remains determined to “end on a high,” both for his team and his legacy. He has vowed to give everything in Abu Dhabi, setting up a thrilling finale to his Mercedes journey.
No doubt is it a tenure defined by unparalleled success. Eight Constructor’s titles. Six Driver’s World Championships. 153 podium finishes. 78 pole positions. 84 victories. Wolff and Hamilton, can stand alongside the legendary F1 duos from the past. The Schumacher and Brawn baton was passed.
For fans, this moment is bittersweet. Hamilton’s departure from the team that has been his home since 2013 feels like the end of an era, but his story is far from finished. Whether it’s in motorsport, philanthropy, or even space exploration, Hamilton’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Ferrari waits for Sir Lewis.
Together, they’ve shared a journey of precision, innovation, and resilience, all of which were on full display in a race as symbolic as it was competitive.
“This race was more than just about competing—it was about cherishing every moment. The team, the fans, and this partnership with IWC have been part of my life for so long. I’m grateful for the journey and for what’s next”
Partnership with IWCC
In Qatar, Hamilton wore a specially designed suit, complete with a “space mission” patch—a tribute to his recent astronaut flight training, another dream realized with IWC’s support. This symbolic gesture was a reminder of Hamilton’s insatiable hunger for new challenges and his ability to inspire beyond the racetrack.
Hamilton’s farewell with IWC Schaffhausen added an extra layer of poignancy to the weekend. The Swiss luxury watchmaker, known for its pioneering approach to engineering, has been a close partner in Hamilton’s journey, mirroring his ethos of pushing boundaries.
What now with Ferrari?
That new challenge comes in the form of Ferrari. Hamilton enthusiasts or ‘Hamilfans’ will be hoping the new chapter gives Lewis a new lease of life on the track.
Confidence has been a problem. If Ferrari want to get the best from their latest addition, his qualifying struggles must be fixed. A Manchester City-esque rebuild may be required.
Two wins at Silverstone and Spa this season, indicate he can still perform at the highest level.
Abu Dhabi has all the earmarks of a classic. Rest assured he will get the fitting reception from the fans who have followed and adored him at Mercedes.
Victory would really shake the rafters in Abu Dhabi. Hamilton will be hoping that Ferrari can help him achieve the stratospheric levels that he and we have been accustomed to.
