Lewis Hamilton, the iconic Formula One driver, recently bid farewell to his long-time team, Mercedes, with a heartwarming gesture. Before his move to Ferrari, Hamilton expressed his gratitude to the Mercedes staff by commissioning a special gift for all 3,000 team members. The six-time Drivers’ Championship winner ordered a painting of his car from the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, a race that held sentimental value as it occurred shortly after the passing of Niki Lauda, with the team honouring the late racing legend with a red halo on their cars.
Paul Oz, the commissioned artist, revealed the artwork in a post, highlighting Hamilton’s class act in providing a parting gift for everyone at Mercedes. The painting captured the momentous Monaco 2019 race, where Hamilton clinched victory amidst emotional circumstances. Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes was marked by a dramatic final race at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where he overtook his teammate George Russell on the last lap to secure fourth place, showcasing his resilience and skill one last time at the helm of the Silver Arrows.
In addition to his generous gesture towards his former team, Hamilton has also made headlines for his personal decision to legally change his name. In 2022, Hamilton disclosed his plans to include his mother’s maiden name, Larbalestier, as a middle name. He expressed his desire to honour his mother’s heritage and challenge the traditional notion of women losing their names upon marriage. While it remains unclear in 2025 whether Hamilton has formally changed his name, this decision underscores his commitment to his family and values.
Lewis Hamilton’s name has become synonymous with excellence in Formula One, and his legacy transcends his on-track achievements. As he embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari, Hamilton’s thoughtful actions towards his former team and his personal choices demonstrate a depth of character that resonates beyond the world of motorsport. Amidst the excitement of his future endeavours, Hamilton’s enduring impact on and off the racetrack continues to inspire fans and colleagues alike.