As the curtain falls on the 2024 Formula 1 season, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team is paying a poignant tribute to one of the sport’s greatest drivers, Lewis Hamilton, marking the end of a 26-year partnership. The farewell, set against the backdrop of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, celebrates Hamilton’s extraordinary career and the legacy he leaves behind as he prepares to embark on a new chapter with Ferrari in 2025.
A Historic Partnership Defined by Excellence
With 245 races, 84 wins, 78 pole positions, and an astounding 153 podium finishes, Hamilton’s tenure with Mercedes has been nothing short of legendary. Together, they secured six Drivers’ World Championships and eight Constructors’ titles, cementing the longest-running and most successful driver-team relationship in Formula 1 history.
But Hamilton’s impact extends far beyond the numbers. His collaboration with Mercedes catalysed change in the sport, breaking barriers and inspiring countless young talents. As Mercedes’ farewell message poignantly states:
“Saying goodbye isn’t just about records or trophies—it’s about celebrating a person who transformed the sport and inspired future generations.”
Every Dream Needs a Team: A Global Farewell Campaign
To honour Hamilton’s legacy, Mercedes has launched a powerful global campaign, Every Dream Needs a Team, in collaboration with London-based agency AMV BBDO. The campaign highlights Hamilton’s journey from a young boy with a dream to a world champion who became a beacon of hope for aspiring racers worldwide.
At its heart is a moving short film, directed by Grammy Award winner Melina Matsoukas and produced by Prettybird. Set to Stormzy’s Blinded by Your Grace, Pt. 2, the film weaves iconic moments from Hamilton’s career with footage of rising young drivers, including Luna Fluxa, Kenzo Craigie, and James Anagnostiadis, symbolising the future of the sport he helped shape.
Tributes Beyond the Track
The campaign’s reach goes beyond the film:
- Iconic imagery of Hamilton and the Mercedes team will illuminate landmarks in Kuala Lumpur, the UK, and New York’s Times Square, creating a visual celebration of his legacy.
- During the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Hamilton’s car will feature the campaign slogan and the names of 150 dedicated fans, representing the millions of supporters who have followed his journey.
- Team Principal Toto Wolff has recorded a heartfelt voice note, a modern-day open letter distributed via WhatsApp, reflecting on their collaboration and sharing parting words of wisdom.
The campaign will also dominate social media, with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team sharing tributes, behind-the-scenes moments, and messages of gratitude across their platforms.
A Legacy of Teamwork and Inspiration
The campaign underscores a principle Hamilton has championed throughout his career: success is a team effort. Chief Communications Officer Bradley Lord captured this sentiment:
“This isn’t just a farewell. It’s a celebration of everything we’ve achieved together and a message to future generations that teamwork lies at the heart of every great story.”
AMV Group’s Executive Creative Director Laura Rogers described the campaign as a fitting homage to Hamilton:
“This is the great opera of life unfolding at 200 miles per hour. It captures the magic of his career and the dreams he’s ignited for countless others.”
The Next Chapter in Red
Hamilton’s departure marks the end of an era, but it’s not a goodbye to the sport. In 2025, he will take on new challenges with Ferrari, bringing his unparalleled skill and determination to a fresh team.
For Mercedes, this is a moment of gratitude and reflection. Their message to Hamilton is simple yet profound:
“Thanks for everything, Lewis!”
As the final laps of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix unfold, the world will watch not just the conclusion of a race but the celebration of a driver who changed Formula 1 forever.
Source: https://f1grandprix.motorionline.com/en/formula-1-mercedes-grazie-di-tutto-lewis/
