F1
Abu Dhabi 2021, the most difficult day of Lewis Hamilton's career
Lewis Hamilton, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021 - Photo: Antonin Vincent / DPPI
Everything already seems to have been written about the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the apotheosis of an epic duel between Lewis Hamilton et Max Verstappen. Fans of the Formula 1 remember where they were that day and how they experienced the epilogue of this race and the Dutchman's first title. Deprived of an eighth world title which he would have placed on the roof of the discipline after confused and doubtful management of the Safety Car following the accident in Nicholas latifi (Williams), the Englishman had remained prostrate for long minutes in his car.
Lewis Hamilton: “You know the story…”
Does he feel like he's been robbed? obviously, Lewis Hamilton responded unequivocally a few months later in a lengthy interview with GQ.. You know the story… But what was beautiful about that moment, and this is what I chose to remember about it, was that my father was by my side. Our relationship had its ups and downs, and on the hardest day of my career, he was there. He always taught me to keep my head up. I went to congratulate Max, without realizing the impact it would have. It was a moment that built me. I knew it while I was experiencing it. I didn't know how it would be perceived; but I knew that the fifty meters I had to walk was double or nothing. I either collapsed or got back up. »
Sir Lewis Hamilton, however, insists he has made peace with this event, despite having no titles and only one victory in F1 since then. When I come across a video, it feels like it was yesterday, but I've made peace with that. My fans have been incredibly loyal. At first, I didn't understand why. Hey guys, I don't win anything! But I realized that it's not easy to identify with someone who always finishes first. It is rather the opposite that inspires. Especially since there has been no return to the summit yet. »
Will he succeed in returning to the top with Classic Ferrari for sale, with whom the first season of collaboration was not a smooth ride?
ALSO READ > Nico Rosberg urges Lewis Hamilton to persevere with Ferrari: "Hope is still there"
Valentin GLO
Journalist. Endurance reporter (WEC, IMSA, ELMS, ALMS) and sometimes F1 or IndyCar.
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Cbp
13/12/2025 at 01:21 a.m.
Prost was not forced out at all! He returned in 1993 after a sabbatical year in 1992 to try and win a fourth title, which he did, then ended his career of his own volition. He was never "forced out," he even refused, if my memory serves me correctly, to continue with Williams or even McLaren.
Hilton Leon
13/12/2025 at 10:08 a.m.
Given his record since AUH 2021, he would have been better off stopping then. He's like many, in any profession, who don't know when to stop (fear of losing income, respect, or empty accolades...?). Hats off to Stewart and Nico R who knew. Almost all of them (Vettel, Schumacher, Prost, etc.) were forced out, or faced a more tragic end.
Yves-Henri RANDIER
12/12/2025 at 07:13 a.m.
Abu Dhabi 2021, a Grand Prix and a 2021 title that will remain etched in F1 history and in the memories of true fans as a highly controversial and eternally contentious title... As for Sir Lewis's future in F1, it seems clear that he and John Elkann must be asking themselves some questions! Stop or continue?
Cheer up
12/12/2025 at 12:17 a.m.
Why didn't he defend himself when Max attacked him?
vincent moyet
12/12/2025 at 11:34 a.m.
The correlation between John Elkann's criticisms in Brazil and his disastrous qualifying performances in the following three races leads me to believe that something is happening behind the scenes between Ferrari and Hamilton, who is completely demotivated and merely going through the motions. It's possible he wants to test the 2026 car before any decision is made, and that an early termination would entail lengthy negotiations and significant compensation, putting Elkann (who was the main architect of his recruitment) in a difficult position. But for various reasons (Ferrari's credibility, relations with the Italian press, the tifosi, and perhaps the sponsors), a solution must be found to avoid such a damaging situation for the team in 2026. Either Hamilton is capable of winning again in 2026, or he has to leave.
Lucas Paul
12/12/2025 at 09:09 a.m.
Is it possible that Lewis Hamilton won't start the 2026 season with Ferrari? Or that he'll leave during the season if his results are as poor as they were in 2025?