Lewis Hamilton ended his 12-year journey with Mercedes with an unprecedented gesture of gratitude. The seven-time world champion gifted more than three thousand team employees with an exclusive artwork symbolizing the success and partnership built over the years. The painting, created by renowned motorsport artist Paul Oz, depicts Hamilton’s car during the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most iconic races of his career, held just days after the passing of former Mercedes consultant Niki Lauda. The moment was immortalized in an original oil painting placed at the team’s headquarters in Brackley, while each team member received a personalized copy.
This farewell gift reflects Hamilton’s appreciation for all those who contributed to his success in Formula 1. The British driver not only stood out on the track but also built strong ties with the team’s employees, recognizing the efforts of every individual who played a role in ensuring his performance and victories over the years. His departure marks the end of one of the most successful partnerships in the sport’s history, with 84 wins and six world championships achieved with Mercedes.
Paul Oz, the artist behind the piece, had previously created paintings for motorsport icons such as Ayrton Senna, James Hunt, and Bruce McLaren. The choice of the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix was significant, capturing a moment of emotion, triumph, and tribute to Lauda. Hamilton’s gesture reinforces his deep connection with the team and his appreciation for everyone who supported him throughout his historic journey.
F1: Hamilton dá presente de despedida para três mil funcionários da Mercedes#F1noMotorsporthttps://t.co/5FrGzgFBKc
— Motorsport.com Brasil (@Motorsport_br) February 5, 2025
The choice of the 2019 Monaco GP for the artwork
The 2019 Monaco Grand Prix was one of Lewis Hamilton’s most intense races in Formula 1. Starting from pole position, he faced immense pressure from Red Bull throughout the race. Driving his Mercedes W10, Hamilton had to manage tire wear while holding off Max Verstappen until the checkered flag. The victory was even more special as it came just days after the passing of Niki Lauda, a three-time world champion and former Mercedes consultant who played a pivotal role in bringing Hamilton to the team in 2013.
During the race weekend, Mercedes paid tribute to Lauda by adding special details to their cars. The halo, a safety component protecting the drivers’ heads, was painted red in honor of Lauda’s iconic cap. Hamilton dedicated his victory to the Austrian, highlighting his immense impact not only on the team but also on his personal career. This moment was immortalized in Paul Oz’s painting, making it a symbol of Hamilton’s legacy at Mercedes.
The impact of Hamilton’s gesture on the team
By gifting all Mercedes employees a copy of the artwork, Hamilton demonstrated his appreciation for those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the team’s success. From engineers responsible for car development to administrative staff, each individual played a crucial role in Mercedes’ Formula 1 dominance over the past decade. The personalized gift strengthens the bond between Hamilton and the team while reinforcing his lasting legacy.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff highlighted the significance of Hamilton’s gesture, emphasizing that the driver always valued the entire team. Throughout his career, Hamilton frequently visited the factory to interact with employees and stay involved in the car development process. His charisma and leadership played a key role in Mercedes’ sustained success.
The relationship between Hamilton and Niki Lauda
Niki Lauda was instrumental in Lewis Hamilton’s decision to leave McLaren and join Mercedes in 2013. At the time, many questioned whether the move would benefit the British driver’s career, as Mercedes had not yet established itself as a dominant force in Formula 1. However, Lauda believed in the team’s potential and, more importantly, in Hamilton’s ability to lead them to the top.
The three-time world champion worked behind the scenes to convince Hamilton to join Mercedes, and time proved it to be one of the best decisions in F1 history. With Hamilton at the helm, Mercedes became the undisputed powerhouse of the sport, winning eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships. The bond between Lauda and Hamilton was one of mutual respect, and the Monaco 2019 painting further highlights Lauda’s lasting influence on Hamilton’s career.
The remarkable numbers of the Hamilton-Mercedes partnership
- 6 World Drivers’ Championships (2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020)
- 8 consecutive Constructors’ Championships (2014 to 2021)
- 84 Grand Prix victories
- 78 pole positions
- 53 fastest laps
- 142 podium finishes with Mercedes
These numbers solidify the partnership between Hamilton and Mercedes as one of the most dominant in Formula 1 history. His farewell to the team signifies the end of an era, but his legacy will remain a benchmark in the sport.
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari
After more than a decade with Mercedes, Hamilton has opted for a new challenge in his career by signing with Ferrari for the 2025 season. The move has generated significant anticipation within the F1 paddock, as the Italian team aims to reclaim its position at the forefront of the sport. Hamilton joins a team that hasn’t won a Drivers’ Championship since 2007 and will look to end that drought.
The decision to join Ferrari reflects Hamilton’s desire for new challenges and the opportunity to conclude his career with the most historic team in Formula 1. Ferrari boasts a rich legacy and a passionate fan base, making Hamilton’s arrival one of the most anticipated events of the upcoming season.
Hamilton’s legacy at Mercedes and in F1
Hamilton’s tenure at Mercedes redefined excellence in Formula 1. His commitment to the team, dedication to car development, and relentless pursuit of self-improvement made him one of the most complete drivers in motorsport history. His influence extends beyond statistics, shaping future generations of drivers and helping to evolve the sport.
Off the track, Hamilton has been an advocate for social justice, environmental issues, and diversity. He has used his platform to bring awareness to important causes and drive change within and outside of motorsport. His departure from Mercedes marks the end of a historic chapter in Formula 1, but his impact and legacy will endure for many years to come.
