Lewis Hamilton, a Year-Long Farewell to Mercedes
The 2024 season began with a shocking prelude that inevitably influenced the subsequent “main course.” It was, of course, Lewis Hamilton’s sensational move from Mercedes to Ferrari—the first domino in a chain reaction that led to the return of an Italian driver to Formula 1, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and an unexpected “demotion” for Carlos Sainz, who moved from Ferrari to Williams.
Hamilton and Mercedes experienced a year of highs and lows. After an understandable coolness in February, Sir Lewis acted as a consummate professional and returned to victory with a magical day at Silverstone. The seven-time world champion also endured some tough weekends, such as Q1 eliminations in Shanghai, Austin, Interlagos, and the particularly unlucky one in Abu Dhabi. These setbacks drew criticism and mockery—ignored by Ferrari—about his driving abilities. However, those who closely observed him in 2024 know that Sir Lewis remains the same as ever, including Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes’ trackside engineering director.
Andrew Shovlin’s Words
“It wasn’t a different Lewis. We saw the same Lewis, with the same grit and determination. The results didn’t come, and that undoubtedly affects everyone’s happiness,” Andrew Shovlin told RacingNews365. “But if you look at Las Vegas, when we gave him the car he needed, he was dominant.” This echoes Nico Hülkenberg’s remarks, suggesting Ferrari fans have no reason to worry about Lewis Hamilton’s form.
“We will always look back at these past three years. We desperately wanted to win a championship, but we didn’t produce the right car. However, when he has the right car, he can secure poles and victories,” Andrew Shovlin continued. “I will miss him; he has been an important part of my career. And everyone will miss him. If winning is the reason you entered this sport, then you will always miss a driver like Lewis. He played a significant role and allowed this team to achieve so much success. He will always be a friend to us.”
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