Breaking: Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton gesture Shows that Hamilton is still P…read more
Mercedes Gesture Toward Lewis Hamilton Shows Bonds Remain Unbroken
Lewis Hamilton may no longer wear Mercedes overalls on race weekends, but a recent social media gesture from the Brackley-based team has made one thing abundantly clear: the bond between the seven-time world champion and his former team has not faded.
Mercedes paid a subtle yet heartfelt tribute to Hamilton earlier this month, proving that despite his high-profile switch to Ferrari, he remains an enduring part of the team’s legacy. The gesture came in the form of a birthday post shared on Instagram, where Hamilton was included among notable Mercedes figures celebrating birthdays in January — a reminder that some relationships in Formula 1 extend far beyond contracts.
Hamilton spent 12 remarkable seasons with Mercedes between 2013 and 2024, a period that reshaped modern F1 history. During that era, the Briton captured six drivers’ world championships and played a central role in Mercedes’ unprecedented run of eight consecutive constructors’ titles from 2014 to 2021. It was one of the most dominant partnerships the sport has ever seen.
However, after three increasingly difficult seasons marked by inconsistent performance and missed opportunities, Hamilton opted for a dramatic change of scenery ahead of the 2025 campaign, joining Ferrari in pursuit of one final championship challenge. The move sent shockwaves through the paddock — but the fairytale ending he hoped for never materialised.
Hamilton’s first season in red proved to be one of the toughest of his illustrious career. At 41 years old, the Brit failed to secure a single grand prix podium throughout the 2025 season and ultimately finished sixth in the drivers’ standings. Even more concerning was the sizeable gap to his team-mate Charles Leclerc, with Hamilton trailing the Monegasque by 86 points in identical machinery.
The struggles inevitably reignited speculation about Hamilton’s future in Formula 1, with some pundits questioning whether time was finally catching up with the sport’s most successful driver. Yet, amid the doubts and criticism, Mercedes’ birthday tribute offered a quiet but powerful counter-narrative.
Hamilton turned 41 on January 7, and Mercedes marked the occasion by featuring him in their “January birthdays” diary post on Instagram. The list included current Mercedes-affiliated drivers Doriane Pin and Frederik Vesti, team principal Toto Wolff, and another legendary seven-time world champion whose final F1 chapter was written with Mercedes — Michael Schumacher.
The inclusion was symbolic. While Hamilton may now race for Ferrari, Mercedes clearly still considers him part of their family.
Shortly after his birthday, Hamilton shared his own reflective message with fans, offering insight into his mindset following a draining and disappointing season. Posting on Instagram, the Brit revealed that he has used the winter break to step away from the relentless pace of Formula 1 and reconnect with himself.
“Another return,” Hamilton wrote. “I’m incredibly grateful for this break. Time to disconnect, recharge and find a bit of inner peace. Time with family and friends, replenishing with rest and good laughs, has been everything I needed after a very draining year.”
Hamilton spoke candidly about the importance of switching off in a fast-moving world, admitting that truly disconnecting had been a rare but transformative experience. He also reflected on personal growth and renewal as the sport heads toward a new era.
Referencing the lunar calendar, Hamilton noted the transition from the Year of the Snake to the Year of the Horse, framing it as a symbolic moment for change. “The time for change is now,” he said. “Starting new routines, leaving behind unwanted patterns and working on growth.”
The Ferrari driver urged his followers to let go of habits and influences that no longer serve them, acknowledging that personal transformation is often a gradual process. “It starts with the first step,” he added.
Despite the challenges of the past year, Hamilton struck an optimistic tone, encouraging fans to stay focused on living authentically. He also expressed deep gratitude for the support he received throughout 2025, admitting that it played a crucial role in helping him regain perspective.
Looking ahead, Hamilton’s hopes are firmly pinned on 2026. Sweeping regulation changes are set to transform Formula 1, offering teams a rare opportunity to reset the competitive order. Ferrari could emerge as a major beneficiary — and Hamilton will be driving a completely new generation of car that may align more naturally with his driving style.
After a bruising season and growing doubts, the next chapter could yet offer redemption. And if Mercedes’ quiet show of affection is anything to go by, Hamilton’s legacy — past, present, and future — still resonates deeply across the Formula 1 world.
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