Throughout his F1 career, Lewis Hamilton has experienced both remarkable highs and challenging lows. These moments have shaped his story and left an indelible mark on the sport.

The Bittersweet End of 2021

The 2021 season concluded in a rather sour note when Hamilton, in a controversial officiating decision, lost the title-deciding race to Max Verstappen on the final lap. This defeat was a significant setback, ending a season that held great promise. It was a moment that Hamilton would surely want to forget, as it marked the end of a year filled with high hopes but ended in disappointment.After such a heart-wrenching experience, Hamilton entered the following years with a sense of determination. However, 2022 and 2023 became seasons of struggle as he faced the reality of going winless for the first time in his F1 career. These years tested his resilience and forced him to reevaluate his approach on the track.

The Struggle with Teammate Russell

This season, despite managing to secure two victories, Hamilton often found himself outpaced by his younger teammate George Russell. This situation led him to openly question whether he had lost his touch. During an interview with F1 in Qatar after some mediocre results, Hamilton vented his frustration, stating, "I'm definitely not fast anymore." These words revealed the inner turmoil he was experiencing, as he grappled with the reality of his performance.The gap between Hamilton and Russell became a topic of discussion among fans and experts alike. It raised questions about Hamilton's ability to adapt and compete in a changing F1 landscape. His struggle to keep up with Russell added an extra layer of complexity to an already challenging season.

The U.K. Home Grand Prix Victory

Amidst the sea of challenges, Hamilton achieved a sensational victory at his U.K. home Grand Prix in July. This win was a moment of pure joy and redemption for him. It was a reminder of his past greatness and a glimmer of hope for the future. The atmosphere at the race was electric, with the British fans rallying behind their hero.This victory not only boosted Hamilton's spirits but also showed that he still had the ability to perform at the highest level. It was a moment that he would cherish and one that gave him the motivation to continue fighting for his place at the top of the sport.

The Final Stretch and Emotional Farewell

As the season drew to a close, Hamilton entered the last race in seventh place in the driver's standings, 24 points behind Russell. The pressure was on as he prepared for this final showdown. He had anticipated that saying goodbye to Mercedes would be difficult, but he had massively underestimated just how challenging it would be.The emotional toll of the year was evident in his words. "It's been a very emotional year for me. And I think I've not been at my best in handling and dealing with those emotions," he said. These words revealed the depth of his feelings and the struggle he had faced throughout the season.Mercedes team boss and CEO Toto Wolff called the race "a celebration" of the Hamilton-Mercedes achievements. After a partnership of "many highs and some crushing lows," they were ready to write the final chapter in their racing story with Lewis this weekend.It has been a remarkable journey for Hamilton, one that has seen him rise to the top and face the darkest of times. As he prepares for the final race, his story continues to inspire and captivate fans around the world.