A Visual Journey: 10 Highlights from the 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

A Champion’s Statement: Lewis Hamilton

Having already secured his fifth World Championship title, Lewis Hamilton arrived in Abu Dhabi with a unique statement. For the first time in his career, and a rare sight on any F1 grid in recent years, Hamilton opted to run the coveted number one plate on the front of his Mercedes-AMG F1 W09 EQ Power+ car during Friday practice. This was a symbolic gesture of his championship success, a departure from his usual #44, though he later reverted for the remainder of the weekend. The decision sparked widespread discussion among fans and pundits, with Hamilton himself stating, “I don’t like it at all,” expressing a strong affinity for his personal #44. This moment underscored Hamilton’s dominant season and his ability to push boundaries, even with something as simple as a car number, adding another intriguing layer to his already legendary career.

• “I don’t like it at all”: Hamilton explains his one-off number one

Daniel Ricciardo’s Emotional Farewell to Red Bull

The 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was a poignant milestone for Daniel Ricciardo, marking his final race with the Red Bull Racing team after five successful seasons and numerous memorable victories. To commemorate this significant moment, Ricciardo unveiled a specially designed helmet, rich with personal symbolism. His iconic “honey badger” motif was depicted with wings, soaring into a new chapter, while simultaneously enjoying a Red Bull drink. Ricciardo explained the artistic choice, stating, “I gave some wings to the honey badger and he’s drinking a Red Bull. Kind of symbolising I’m going to use the wings they gave me to take off and go on my next journey. I’ll still keep Red Bull close to me, it’s been a big part of me.” This design perfectly encapsulated his gratitude for the opportunities provided by Red Bull, while also looking ahead to his exciting move to Renault for the following season. It was a visual metaphor for growth, change, and the enduring impact of a formative relationship.

The Incredible Return of Robert Kubica

For many Formula 1 fans, the return of Robert Kubica to a full-time racing seat was nothing short of miraculous. In Abu Dhabi, the long-awaited announcement was finally made: Williams confirmed that Kubica would indeed return to the F1 grid as a race driver for the 2019 season. This news was met with immense excitement and emotion, particularly from his devoted fanbase, who had followed his incredible journey of recovery from a devastating rally crash in 2011 that nearly ended his career and life. His determination, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of his F1 dream were an inspiration. Kubica himself acknowledged the profound significance of his comeback, stating that his F1 return “shows nothing is impossible.” This truly was one of the most heartwarming stories of the 2018 season, a testament to the power of human spirit and perseverance, culminating in a poignant moment at Yas Marina.

• Kubica says his F1 return “shows nothing is impossible”

Kimi Raikkonen’s Unfortunate Ferrari Farewell

The 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix also marked the end of another significant era: Kimi Raikkonen’s second stint with Scuderia Ferrari. The “Iceman,” a beloved figure in the paddock, was set to move to Sauber for the 2019 season. Unfortunately, his final race for the legendary Italian team ended prematurely and disappointingly. Just seven laps into the Grand Prix, Raikkonen was forced to retire due to an electrical failure on his Ferrari. This unfortunate incident cut short what many hoped would be a celebratory conclusion to his time with Ferrari, a team with whom he secured his only World Championship title in 2007. Despite the premature exit, the moment served as a reflection on Raikkonen’s remarkable and often unpredictable career, leaving fans to ponder what might have been had luck been on his side in his Ferrari swansong.

The Traditional End-of-Season Drivers’ Photograph

A cherished tradition at the end of every Formula 1 season is the gathering of all the drivers for their official group photograph. The 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix saw the full grid assemble, a moment that always encapsulates the camaraderie, rivalry, and collective talent present in the sport. This photograph is more than just a picture; it’s a snapshot of history, capturing the faces of champions, rising stars, and those making their final appearances in the sport. It serves as a visual record of the season’s protagonists, standing together before they disperse for the winter break, reflecting on their individual journeys and the shared experience of competing at the pinnacle of motorsport. It’s a moment of unity amidst a sport defined by fierce competition.

• F1 drivers’ group photographs, 1996-2018

Hollywood Glamour: Will Smith at the Grand Prix

Formula 1 often attracts a host of celebrities, and the 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was no exception. Hollywood superstar Will Smith played a particularly visible and engaging role throughout the weekend, adding an extra layer of glamour and entertainment to the proceedings. From interacting with drivers to participating in pre-race activities, Smith’s presence generated significant buzz, drawing attention from both traditional F1 fans and broader popular culture audiences. His infectious enthusiasm and star power highlighted the increasing crossover appeal of Formula 1, demonstrating how the sport continues to attract global icons and expand its reach beyond the racing purists. Moments like these remind us that F1 is not just a sport, but a global spectacle.

Continuing Rivalry: Esteban Ocon and Max Verstappen

The rivalry between Max Verstappen and Esteban Ocon had reached boiling point just two races prior at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where a controversial on-track collision led to a physical altercation post-race. Entering Abu Dhabi, tensions were still palpable, and true to form, the two drivers found themselves locked in battle once again. This time, their fight was purely for position on the track, devoid of the direct contact that had ignited their previous clash. Their intense wheel-to-wheel racing in Abu Dhabi was a testament to their competitive spirits, showcasing their raw talent and unwavering desire to gain every possible advantage. These moments underscore the high stakes and fierce determination that define Formula 1, where every position is hard-fought, and rivalries, once sparked, often continue to simmer.

A Champion’s Final F1 Bow: Fernando Alonso

The 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked a bittersweet moment for Formula 1 as it witnessed the then-final race of two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso. While his McLaren MCL33 wasn’t competitive enough to score points in his swansong, finishing 11th, his remarkable career, which included 32 Grand Prix victories and two world championships, deserved a fitting send-off. In a heartfelt tribute, Alonso was allowed to perform celebratory doughnuts on the main straight after the race, joined by fellow champions Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel, creating an iconic image of respect and admiration. This emotional gesture allowed fans and the entire F1 paddock to acknowledge the immense talent and impact of one of the sport’s greatest drivers. His departure, though temporary as it turned out, symbolized the end of an illustrious chapter in Formula 1 history.

Daniel Ricciardo’s Near Podium in his Red Bull Finale

Beyond the special helmet, Daniel Ricciardo was determined to make his final race for Red Bull a memorable one on the track. He delivered a spirited performance, pushing his car to its limits in an attempt to secure a podium finish. Ultimately, despite his best efforts, he narrowly missed out on a top-three spot, finishing in fourth place. This result meant his last podium with Red Bull remained the triumph in Monaco earlier in the season. While a podium would have been a fairytale ending to his chapter with the Milton Keynes squad, Ricciardo’s drive showcased his enduring talent and aggressive racing style that endeared him to so many fans during his tenure at Red Bull. His performance in Abu Dhabi highlighted his commitment until the very last lap with the team that had brought him into the upper echelons of Formula 1.

The Final Podium: Hamilton, Vettel, and Verstappen

The podium ceremony at the 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was a fitting culmination to a captivating season. Lewis Hamilton, victorious in his 11th race of the year, stood atop the rostrum, flanked by Sebastian Vettel in second and Max Verstappen in third. Hamilton celebrated his triumph in typical flamboyant style, stripping off his race suit to reveal his chest, proudly displaying his “Still I Rise” tattoo. This powerful phrase, inspired by Maya Angelou’s poem, has become a personal mantra for the five-time champion, embodying his journey, his struggles, and his relentless ascent to the pinnacle of motorsport. His celebration was a dramatic and personal statement, resonating with fans worldwide and serving as a poignant reminder of the mental and physical fortitude required to succeed at this elite level. The final podium lineup brought together three of the sport’s biggest stars, closing the season with a powerful image of victory and resilience.

• Hamilton explains topless podium celebration