Breaking news:From breakthrough victories to jaw-dropping comebacks – Hamilton’s top 10 greatest…read more
From breakthrough victories to jaw-dropping comebacks – Hamilton’s top 10 greatest…read more
After 246 appearances over 12 unforgettable years, Lewis Hamilton bid an emotional farewell to Mercedes at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in Formula 1 history. The seven-time world champion, who has been an icon both on and off the track, is preparing to join Ferrari in 2025, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy with the Silver Arrows. Their partnership has been nothing short of groundbreaking, producing a series of record-breaking moments and exhilarating performances that have defined the sport.
It’s only fitting, then, that we take a moment to reflect on Hamilton’s most iconic moments during his time with Mercedes. From dramatic comebacks to jaw-dropping victories, here are ten of his greatest achievements that have etched his name even deeper into the F1 history books.
1. The Unexpected Move to Mercedes (2013)
When Lewis Hamilton made the surprising decision to leave McLaren, the team where he had honed his skills and won his first F1 World Championship in 2008, and sign with Mercedes in 2013, many eyebrows were raised. Mercedes had only managed a single victory since its return to F1 in 2010. However, Hamilton quickly silenced the doubters with a display of sheer determination and skill, proving that his faith in the team was well-placed.
2. First Victory with Mercedes – Hungarian Grand Prix (2013)
Hamilton’s first win for Mercedes came at the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2013, a pivotal moment that established his dominance in the Silver Arrows. Starting from pole position, Hamilton lost the lead during the pit stops but executed a series of sensational overtakes, including a thrilling move past Red Bull’s Mark Webber, to reclaim P1. The victory not only marked the beginning of a new era for both Hamilton and Mercedes but also set the tone for their future dominance in the sport.
3. The Rise to Power in 2014
The 2014 season was a turning point, both for Mercedes and Hamilton. The introduction of turbo-hybrid engines completely shifted the competitive landscape, and Mercedes emerged as the undisputed powerhouse. The Silver Arrows were no longer just contenders—they were the team to beat. Hamilton and his teammate, Nico Rosberg, ignited a fierce rivalry that captivated fans throughout the season, with Hamilton’s relentless drive pushing the team to new heights.
4. Epic Battle with Rosberg in Bahrain (2014)
One of the most thrilling moments of their rivalry came at the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2014. After starting from pole, Rosberg initially held the lead, but Hamilton wasted no time in asserting his dominance. With the strategic elements and pit stops in play, the two went toe-to-toe in a gripping battle for the win. Hamilton eventually emerged victorious, demonstrating not just his speed but his tactical brilliance, setting the stage for what would be a season-long battle between the two.
5. 2014 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – The Championship Decider
The 2014 title race was a nail-biting showdown that ended with Hamilton clinching his second World Championship. With a 16-point lead going into the final race, Hamilton was in a commanding position, but the ever-determined Rosberg, who had pole position, wasn’t going down without a fight. Despite his teammate’s challenges, Hamilton’s determination shone through as he took an early lead. A late Energy Recovery System failure for Rosberg sealed his fate, and Hamilton won the race and the championship, securing his place in Mercedes’ history.
6. The Perfect Weekend – Monaco Grand Prix (2015)
The Monaco Grand Prix is often considered one of the most prestigious races on the F1 calendar, and Hamilton’s victory in 2015 showed why he’s regarded as one of the best in the world. After a dominant performance in qualifying, Hamilton delivered a flawless race to secure the win, maintaining his edge in one of the most challenging circuits on the calendar. His smooth and calculated drive showcased the sheer brilliance that would define his later years with Mercedes.
7. Dominating 2017 – A Season of Class
The 2017 season was another standout year for Hamilton, who went on a dominant run, winning nine races and securing his fourth world championship. One of his most memorable wins that season came at Silverstone, his home Grand Prix, where he showed his ability to rise to the occasion. With his impeccable tire management and strategic drive, Hamilton’s victory in front of a home crowd reinforced his status as one of F1’s greatest.
8. The 2018 German Grand Prix – A Miracle Comeback
The 2018 German Grand Prix will forever be remembered as one of the most incredible comebacks in F1 history. Hamilton, starting from 14th on the grid, found himself battling torrential rain, a chaotic race, and several mistakes from rivals. In a masterclass of driving under pressure, Hamilton fought back to claim a sensational victory, a win that turned the momentum in his favor in the title battle and showcased his mental fortitude.
9. The 2020 Season – Dominance Reborn
The 2020 season was perhaps Hamilton’s most dominant. Amid a global pandemic, he delivered some of the most extraordinary performances of his career, winning 11 of the 17 races. His victory in the Belgian Grand Prix was a particularly stunning example of his pace and consistency, as he led from start to finish, taking his 89th career win and inching closer to Michael Schumacher’s record.
10. The Final Farewell – Abu Dhabi 2024
After a career that spanned more than a decade with Mercedes, Hamilton’s final race for the team in Abu Dhabi in 2024 marked the end of an era. Though he didn’t take the title in his final race, his farewell was emotional, with fans, teammates, and rivals alike reflecting on the unforgettable legacy he leaves behind at Mercedes. As he embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari in 2025, his achievements with the Silver Arrows remain some of the most defining moments in F1 history.
Hamilton’s journey with Mercedes has been filled with triumphs, heartbreaks, and milestones that have left an indelible mark on the sport. As he heads to Ferrari, there’s no doubt his impact on F1 will continue to resonate, and his time at Mercedes will be remembered as one of the greatest eras in Formula 1 history.