Ferrari faced criticism for their muted reaction to Lewis Hamilton’s final radio message of the 2025 F1 season. Despite a tough debut year with the team, Hamilton took a moment after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to thank his crew for their dedication and hard work, expressing heartfelt gratitude. His words reflected his commitment and appreciation for the team, even after a season that fell short of his personal expectations.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix saw Lando Norris secure his first F1 Drivers’ Championship with a third-place finish, while Max Verstappen won the race and Oscar Piastri came second. Hamilton, finishing eighth, capped off a season of challenges but still took the time to acknowledge the efforts of those around him. His message, “Long season, guys. Grazie a tutti… I’ll always fight for you,” was intended as a gesture of respect and camaraderie.
Instead of the warm reception Hamilton might have expected, his message was met with an awkward silence from the Ferrari pit. After several moments, a team member responded tersely, thanking him briefly and noting they had been “talking.” Fans quickly noticed the coldness of the exchange, feeling that the team had failed to properly recognize Hamilton’s sincerity and dedication throughout the season.
Supporters of the British driver took to social media to defend him, praising his dedication, generosity, and spirit. Many called on Ferrari to show more warmth and recognition, emphasizing that Hamilton’s career and contributions deserved acknowledgment, especially as he adapts to a new team after leaving Mercedes. The message resonated with fans as a reflection of Hamilton’s humility and enduring professionalism.
Hamilton will continue with Ferrari into the 2026 season, determined to build on the lessons from 2025. Meanwhile, McLaren concluded the year atop the Constructors’ Championship standings, marking a successful campaign for Norris’ team. Hamilton’s heartfelt message, though met with a lukewarm response, underscored his commitment and set the tone for a fresh start next year.
About the Author
