The GOAT has left the building. Thank you, Lewis Hamilton":

The GOAT has left the building. Thank you, Lewis Hamilton”: Mercedes employee bids farewell to the F1 legend on his…….read more

Mercedes employee Katie Mostyn paid an emotional tribute to Lewis Hamilton as the seven-time Formula 1 world champion bid farewell to the team’s base in Brackley. The 39-year-old’s departure follows the conclusion of the 2024 season, during which he raced in his final event for Mercedes at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. While Hamilton finished P4 in his last race, the event marked the end of an era for the iconic driver, who has been synonymous with Mercedes’ success for over a decade.

The 2024 season was a mixed one for Hamilton, who struggled with consistency in the W15 car. Despite facing several challenges and lows, including a P7 finish in the driver’s standings, Hamilton managed to secure a memorable win at Silverstone and also inherited another victory from his teammate George Russell at the Belgian Grand Prix in Spa. These highlights, however, were not enough to compensate for the overall performance struggles, which made his final season with Mercedes both bittersweet and reflective of the complexities of his illustrious career.

Katie Mostyn, who works in the Lifestyle Partnerships department at Mercedes, shared a touching moment on her social media platform X (formerly Twitter). In a heartfelt video, she captured the moment Hamilton drove away from the Brackley headquarters for the last time. The video, which depicted the F1 legend leaving the premises, was accompanied by the caption: “The GOAT has left the building. Thank you, Lewis.” This simple yet profound message underscored the deep admiration and respect that many at Mercedes have for the driver who had been a central figure in the team’s dominance over the years.

Hamilton’s departure marks the conclusion of an extraordinary chapter in both his career and Mercedes’ history. Throughout his time with the team, Hamilton not only secured seven World Drivers’ Championships but also helped transform Mercedes into a powerhouse, claiming numerous wins and contributing to the team’s consecutive Constructors’ Championships. His relationship with Mercedes has been one of mutual respect and success, making his exit from the team all the more significant.

In addition to Mostyn’s tribute, Hamilton also posted a farewell message on his Instagram account. Sharing a series of images that captured moments from his time with Mercedes, Hamilton wrote a heartfelt goodbye to the team and its dedicated workforce. “This is really it,” he began, reflecting on his years with Mercedes. “After Abu Dhabi, after Kuala Lumpur, and after Stuttgart, it comes to an end here. This has been my home.”

He went on to express his gratitude to everyone who had been part of his journey with Mercedes, acknowledging the incredible support he received from the team. “To the thousands of people who work at Brackley and Brixworth, you have been friends and teammates, and I can’t thank you enough for all the hard work and support,” he said. “It’s been real.” His message was a fitting tribute to the bonds he had built with the Mercedes team and the unforgettable moments they shared together.

Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes signifies the end of an era not only for the team but also for Formula 1. The Briton’s impact on the sport has been profound, with his dominance over the last decade, his advocacy for diversity, and his influence off the track making him one of the most influential athletes in the world. His legacy, both on and off the track, will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come, with his numerous records, including the all-time wins record, cementing his place in F1 history.

As Hamilton drives away from Brackley for the final time, his journey with Mercedes is now complete. However, his legacy within the sport will continue to inspire future generations of drivers. The chapter that has just closed marks the end of a defining era for both Hamilton and Mercedes, but it also opens the door to new possibilities and challenges for both the driver and the team. As Hamilton transitions into the next phase of his career, the Formula 1 world watches closely, eager to see what the future holds for one of the greatest drivers the sport has ever known.

While Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes is a poignant moment for the team and fans alike, it is also a reminder of the enduring nature of his influence. As he moves forward in his career, his journey will continue to resonate throughout the motorsport world, ensuring that the legacy of his time with Mercedes will remain a central chapter in the story of Formula 1.