Mercedes took some special measures to give their star man a fitting send-off.
Mercedes prepared a special message on Lewis Hamilton’s dashboard at the end of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last weekend. The seven-time world champion completed his final race for the Silver Arrows, ending a legendary 12-year stay in Brackley.
The final race weekend of the season was an emotional one for all personnel involved at Mercedes as Hamilton donned the black and silver overalls for the final time. The 39-year-old came back from 16th on the grid to finish fourth, ahead of team-mate George Russell, rounding off the year in style.
When he pulled into a specially designated grid spot after the chequered flag, Hamilton had a heartwarming graphic on his steering wheel display. It is not uncommon for teams to bid departing F1 drivers farewell in this manner, and Carlos Sainz also received a similar message from Ferrari.
Lewis if you go chassis default 44 for Maddog,” said race engineer Peter Bonnington on the cooldown lap. “And if we could have HPP one position 12, strat mode 14, pick up as much rubber as you can on the fronts and we’ll see you on the grid, go to the grid, please.”
What popped up on the steering wheel display was a photo of Hamilton along with the years of his seven Drivers’ Championship titles – six of which were won with Mercedes – and the message: “Thank you, Lewis. Forever we rise.”