Source – Formula1.com
Before Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, moves to the Scuderia in 2025, Toto Wolff has explained why he will not be able to drive for Ferrari in the Abu Dhabi post-season test.
The Formula 1 world is bracing for an emotional farewell as Lewis Hamilton prepares to part ways with Mercedes after an extraordinary journey that began in 2013. The seven-time world champion, who has been the face of the Silver Arrows for over a decade, will take his talents to Ferrari next season, marking the end of an era that redefined the sport. However, one detail has captured attention ahead of the Abu Dhabi finale: Hamilton will not be participating in Ferrari’s post-season test, a decision that has sparked intrigue and debate across the paddock.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ Team Principal, addressed the situation during the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, shedding light on the reasons behind Hamilton’s absence from the test. Contrary to speculation, the decision wasn’t rooted in conflict but rather in logistical challenges and respect for contractual obligations. Wolff revealed that Ferrari boss Frédéric Vasseur had not approached him regarding Hamilton’s participation in the test, adding a touch of humor to the situation. “Fred didn’t ask,” Wolff remarked. “I think it’s different when you’re going to Williams, but with Ferrari, there are contractual agreements with sponsors, and we have farewell plans for Lewis. We spoke briefly, and we both agreed it wouldn’t work.”
The sentiment was echoed by Vasseur, who clarified that while Ferrari is allowing Carlos Sainz to test with Williams in Abu Dhabi, this was a unique case. Sainz, who will leave Ferrari at the end of the season, has been granted the opportunity as a gesture of appreciation for his professionalism throughout a challenging year. Vasseur emphasized that each situation is different and that respecting existing contracts is paramount.
For Mercedes, the focus is now on bidding farewell to a driver who has been instrumental in their dominance of Formula 1. Wolff admitted that while the team remains focused on the remaining races, the reality of Hamilton’s departure is beginning to sink in. “There’s no overwhelming emotion yet, but as we get closer to Abu Dhabi, I’m sure it will hit us,” he said. “We’ve had an incredible partnership, and saying goodbye will be hard. But Lewis isn’t disappearing; he’ll still be on the grid, just in a different car.”
The Austrian also reflected on the future of Mercedes, expressing optimism about their new driver lineup, which includes 18-year-old rising star Kimi Antonelli. “We are entering a new chapter with young talent, and that’s exciting,” Wolff said. “At the same time, we wish Lewis the best—maybe with a slightly slower car!” he added with a wry smile.
As Hamilton prepares for his final race with Mercedes, the atmosphere is bittersweet. The partnership between the team and its star driver has delivered unmatched success, including six drivers’ championships and countless victories. But beyond the trophies, it’s the bond between Hamilton and the Mercedes family that has defined this era. Wolff’s words capture the essence of the farewell: “We are not losing the person; we are just losing the driver.”
For Ferrari, Hamilton’s arrival signals a new dawn, one that brings both hope and immense expectations. While the Scuderia prepares to welcome one of the sport’s greatest talents, Mercedes is ready to embark on a new journey with its next generation of drivers. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will mark not just the end of a season but the conclusion of one of Formula 1’s most iconic partnerships. The grid will look very different next year, but the legacy of Hamilton and Mercedes will endure as one of the sport’s most remarkable stories.
