Hamilton's Abu Dhabi words seen as potential farewell, Norris receives championship trophy
Johnny Herbert suggests Lewis Hamilton's Abu Dhabi comments may have been a farewell speech after a tough first year with Ferrari, while Lando Norris was officially crowned 2025 World Champion at the FIA Gala, having won the title by just two points.
Lewis Hamilton's 2025 season with Ferrari ended with what former F1 driver Johnny Herbert believes was a de facto farewell speech, while Lando Norris formally received his World Championship trophy at the FIA Gala in Uzbekistan. The contrasting moments highlight a season of significant change and achievement in Formula 1.
Why it matters:
Hamilton's potential career contemplation marks a pivotal moment for the sport's most successful driver, whose move to Ferrari has yet to yield the expected results. Simultaneously, Norris's official coronation solidifies the arrival of a new champion and potentially a new competitive era, closing the book on a dramatic 2025 title fight.
The details:
- Johnny Herbert, a three-time Grand Prix winner and former steward, pointed to Hamilton's body language and overall demeanor in Abu Dhabi as indicators the seven-time champion could be considering retirement.
- Hamilton's debut season with Ferrari was challenging, failing to secure a single podium finish across the 24-race 2025 campaign.
- In Uzbekistan, Lando Norris was presented with the World Drivers' Championship trophy by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
- Norris's title makes him the 35th champion in F1 history and the first McLaren driver to win the drivers' crown since Lewis Hamilton himself in 2008.
- He secured the championship by a narrow two-point margin over Max Verstappen, with teammate Oscar Piastri finishing a further 11 points behind in third.
What's next:
The off-season will be dominated by speculation regarding Hamilton's future and his motivation for 2026, while McLaren and Norris will begin their title defense preparations. All eyes will be on whether Ferrari can provide Hamilton with a competitive car, potentially influencing his decision to continue, and if McLaren can maintain its momentum against a resurgent Red Bull and other contenders.