Did Mercedes Set the Standard for Farewelling an Iconic Athlete

Athletes leaving teams is often fraught with tension, uncertainty, and emotion. Yet Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team has redefined how to gracefully part ways with a legend. As Lewis Hamilton prepares to leave Mercedes after an extraordinary 11-year partnership to join Scuderia Ferrari in 2025, the team has delivered a masterclass in honouring one of the sport’s greatest champions.

Rather than focusing on the loss, Mercedes has celebrated Hamilton’s monumental contributions to the team and the sport. With 245 races, 84 wins, 78 pole positions, 153 podiums, six World Drivers’ Championships, and eight World Constructors’ Championships, Hamilton’s legacy with Mercedes is unparalleled.

To commemorate the partnership, Mercedes released a poignant three-minute tribute video titled “Thank You, Lewis.” The video highlights not only Hamilton’s incredible on-track success but also his journey with the team, showcasing their shared values of ambition, innovation, and excellence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@mercedesamgf1)

The team also shared a heartfelt message:

“Ready to write the final chapter in an incredible story. Thank you, Lewis.”

Hamilton reciprocated with his own message, reflecting on his journey with the team and his future with Ferrari:

“Mercedes has been a huge part of my life since I was 13 years old, so this decision has been the hardest I’ve ever had to make. I’m incredibly proud of all that we’ve achieved together and very grateful to everyone I’ve worked with over the years.”

This approach by Mercedes sets a benchmark for how teams can celebrate athletes moving on. By acknowledging the shared history, valuing the individual’s contributions, and focusing on a positive farewell, Mercedes has turned what could have been a bittersweet moment into a celebration of one of Formula 1’s most iconic partnerships.

However, not all reactions to the farewell have been positive. Social media has seen backlash from some fans, who criticised Mercedes’ “Every Dream Needs a Team” tagline as diminishing Hamilton’s individual brilliance. While many applauded the team’s tribute, others argued it overshadowed his unparalleled talent and contributions to Formula 1.

The emphasis on legacy, rather than loss, also serves as a reminder of the enduring impact athletes can have on teams, even after they leave. As other organizations watch the departure of an athlete as transformative as Hamilton, Mercedes has shown a path forward: one that is rooted in respect, gratitude, and the acknowledgment of shared success.

Join the free Ministry of Sport newsletter or become a MoS Member for all the latest news in sports business.