P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff believes Lewis Hamilton held the pace to challenge for the win in the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix had he started higher up on the grid.
Hamilton delivered a stunning performance in his final race with Mercedes, climbing 12 places to finish fourth at the Yas Marina Circuit. Despite a strong showing in practice, he was eliminated in Q1 due to a bollard incident. Hamilton believed a podium was within reach given his pace earlier in the weekend. By running a long first stint on Hard tyres and finishing on Mediums, he managed to pass his teammate George Russell on the last lap. Mercedes boss Wolff praised Hamilton’s drive from P16 and lamented the bollard incident that cost them a shot at victory. Hamilton’s 12-year partnership with Mercedes, which yielded 84 wins and six titles, is the longest in F1 history, creating a bond of trust and attachment that Wolff values. Wolff expressed dedication to maintaining the relationship with Hamilton beyond racing, highlighting their competitiveness in sports sessions and mutual respect.
