As the 2024 season draws to a close, significant changes are on the horizon. Lewis Hamilton will end his decade-long stint with Mercedes and move to Maranello. For the first time in his career, the Briton will drive a car not powered by Mercedes. While the swap is historical, the seven-time world champion is emotional to leave the Silver Arrows.
Meanwhile, Mercedes, which has picked Kimi Antonelli and George Russell as its future, is preparing for a grand farewell. The team has had a dismal season, with only three wins. It currently sits fourth in the Constructors’ standings, highlighting an underwhelming season.
Mercedes Planning A Memorable Lewis Hamilton Farewell While Villeneuve Questions McLaren’s Mentality
Since joining forces in 2013, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes have rewritten Formula 1 history, with Hamilton clinching six of his seven World Championships in Mercedes colors. However, the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will mark the end of an era, as it will be Hamilton’s final race with the team. To commemorate this milestone, 150 fortunate fans will have their names displayed on Hamilton’s W15 car in Abu Dhabi, selected through a free-to-enter prize draw.
In other developments, significant changes are unfolding behind the scenes in F1 governance. Following the recent confirmation of FIA race director Niels Wittich’s departure, compliance officer Paolo Basarri has also reportedly stepped down. It is believed that FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem made the decision to relieve Basarri of his duties, signaling further reshuffling within the organization.
Meanwhile, on the track, McLaren’s Lando Norris saw his Drivers’ Championship hopes fade in Brazil after a stunning performance by Max Verstappen, who extended his lead to 62 points. Despite this setback, McLaren remains focused on the bigger picture. According to team principal Andrea Stella, their primary goal has always been the Constructors’ Championship, underscoring their commitment to securing success as a team.
Red Bull Honored Daniel Ricciardo’s Request To Delay Announcement Until Singapore GP
The Singapore Grand Prix was an unusual and subdued farewell for Daniel Ricciardo, marking what turned out to be his final race weekend as a Formula 1 driver. Although many speculated about his impending departure from Red Bull’s junior team, VCARB, the official announcement was held back until after the race weekend. This delay sparked criticism, with fans expressing disappointment over the missed opportunity to celebrate one of F1’s most beloved personalities.
However, VCARB CEO Peter Bayer clarified that the decision to postpone the announcement was made out of respect for Ricciardo’s wishes. The Australian driver preferred to avoid the fanfare and additional attention that an in-weekend announcement might have brought, choosing instead to focus on his performance.
In other news, Formula 1 has revealed an exciting new initiative for the 2025 season. For the first time, all ten teams will unveil their liveries at a single event, set to take place under one roof at the O2 in London. While this launch season event has generated buzz among fans, not everyone in the paddock shares the enthusiasm. Max Verstappen, for instance, made it clear that he has little interest in attending, jokingly expressing his hope to miss the occasion altogether.