Lewis Hamilton: We gave it absolutely everything
Monday, 13 December 2021
Hamilton was bidding for a record-breaking eighth title.
Lewis Hamilton spoke of his pride in his Mercedes team after they "gave it absolutely everything" but came up just short in the Formula 1® drivers' championship.
Hamilton was bidding for a record-breaking eighth title in 2021 and battled back admirably after trailing Max Verstappen for much of the year.
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It looked as though the Mercedes great would pip Verstappen as he led for the majority of Sunday's decisive Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, only for a late safety car to bring the Dutchman back into contention with one lap to go.
Verstappen, on fresh tyres, was able to get past Hamilton, leaving Mercedes furious with race director Michael Masi.
Immediately after the heartbreaking finish, though, Hamilton congratulated an emotional Verstappen and then turned his attention to the Silver Arrows staff.
"Firstly, a big congratulations to Max and to his team," Hamilton said. "I think we did an amazing job this year.
"Everyone back at the factory, all the men and women we have, they've worked so hard this whole year. It's been the most difficult of seasons. I'm so proud of them, so grateful to be a part of the journey with them.
"We gave it everything in this last part of the season, absolutely everything. We never gave up.
"I've been feeling great in the car this past couple of months, particularly at the end.
"But we're still in the pandemic and I just wish everyone to stay safe and have a good Christmas with their families and we'll see you guys next year."
There are no words.
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) December 12, 2021
