Lewis Hamilton on Vettel’s leaving: Sad to lose an ally on the grid

The Aston Martin driver has announced he will end his Formula One career at the end of 2022. Hamilton shared his thoughts on his teammate’s role and noted that Sebastian was not afraid to speak out on sensitive topics.

I would say the first emotion was naturally sadness when I heard he was leaving. I didn’t have enough time to immerse myself in thoughts of all we have been through together. When I talk about my journey, it has often been a relatively lonely one. And you could say Sebastian was one of those who brightened that feeling. He’s often been supportive of me. I will always remember 2007, Magny-Cours when he spoke very openly at the drivers’ meeting. I knew for sure he was going to be an influential figure in F1.

Then I watched his successes and also saw Sebastian put the interests of others before his own, act very bravely, raise his voice and stand up for what he believed in. We’re talking about “legends” – I don’t particularly like that word, but I think he’s one of the greatest people we’ve seen in F1. We need drivers like that. I’m sad because I lost an ally on the grid, however, I know he will continue to do great things. Hopefully, we’ll be friends forever and do something together outside of F1.

Ultimately we stand on the shoulders of great men of the past – whether in F1 or any other sport. I really hope he inspires the next generation – either those present in the peloton or the next generation – to step up, to use their platform, and realize that it’s not just about the drivers and the cars – there are themes that are much, much more important than being in F1, said the seven-time world champion.