Wolff: Lewis will always be a part of our Mercedes family

Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes marks the conclusion of a historic 12-year collaboration that rewrote the record books of Formula 1, with Wolff at the helm throughout the journey.

Since joining the Silver Arrows in 2013, Hamilton has amassed 105 Grand Prix victories, 104 pole positions, and six World Championship titles with Mercedes, adding to his maiden crown from 2008 with McLaren. Together, Hamilton and Mercedes forged the most successful driver-team partnership in the sport’s history.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will also mark the end of an era as Hamilton prepares for a new chapter with Ferrari in 2025, leaving behind a career entirely powered by Mercedes engines. Reflecting on this milestone, Wolff acknowledged the profound legacy Hamilton leaves behind.

"After 12 incredible years, we get ready to write the final chapter in our racing story with Lewis this weekend," Wolff said. "It has been quite a journey. When we first started working together in 2013, we couldn't have imagined what was to come.

Six Drivers' F1 World Championships. Eight Constructors' titles. 84 wins. 78 pole positions. 153 podium finishes. The most successful driver and team partnership in F1 history. Many highs that we have enjoyed. Some crushing lows that we've overcome together."

Wolff emphasised that Hamilton’s impact extended far beyond the statistics that defined their collaboration: "Our relationship has meant so much more than just numbers and statistics, though. It is a legacy that transcends our sport, with a lasting impact beyond the racetrack. One that has strived to increase diversity in our sport. To fight for inclusion.

"Lewis has been the catalyst for so much of this, and we have been honoured and proud to work hand-in-hand with him. That work won't stop at the end of this year. But it began because of the impetus led by Lewis," trumpeted Wolff.

The season finale in Abu Dhabi will not only serve as a competitive focus but also a celebration of Hamilton’s unmatched association with Mercedes.

"This weekend in Abu Dhabi is a celebration. A celebration of everything that we have accomplished together. Lewis's association with Mercedes goes back 26 years. Every lap of his career so far has been powered by the three-pointed star.

"We will honour this unparalleled story in Abu Dhabi and across the following week as we visit Kuala Lumpur, Stuttgart, then finally Brixworth and Brackley. And honour it knowing that, whilst this phase of our relationship is coming to an end, Lewis will always be a part of our family," Wolff declared.

Looking to the immediate task at hand, Wolff concluded with a rallying cry for the weekend: "For now, though, our full focus is on the race weekend. There is no better way to mark the end of our time together than with a strong performance on the track. The entire team is focused on adding one more highlight to the reel.

"We also want to end the season on the front foot. That will help us carry momentum into the winter and onwards as we open the next chapter in our story in 2025. With George as the senior driver and Kimi as an exciting rookie talent, our future is bright. But let's end this present chapter in the right way. Thank you, Lewis: for one final time, let's do this," declared the Mercedes team principal.

As Hamilton prepares to don Mercedes colours for the last time, the F1 paddock braces for the conclusion of one of its most iconic partnerships that defined an era, with both the team and its departing legend aiming for a fitting farewell under the lights of Yas Marina.