After a negative test result for coronavirus, fans were pleased to see Lewis Hamilton back in the F1 paddock again. The seven-time champion had previously missed the Sakhir GP as part of his isolation period. However, he looked in positive spirits when he arrived.

There was also a hint of rustiness as he took to the wheel of his Mercedes W11 in the first practice session. By the time FP2 came around, however, he was back, racing in his natural element.

Regardless, Hamilton himself maintains that enjoying the upcoming race weekend is also important. With both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ titles already sewn up, he believes there is nothing to prove ahead of the Abu Dhabi GP race.

Lewis Hamilton believes it has been a ‘privilege’ to race with Mercedes this year

The 35-year-old is quoted as saying, “It’s been a huge amount of work from everyone back at the factories, and it’s been a privilege to race with them this year.”

Hamilton came incredibly close to tying the joint record of most wins, which is currently at 13. Nevertheless, what most matters is the championship win. With that already under his belt, Hamilton is back on track to enjoy the weekend.

“So we don’t have anything to prove this weekend. I don’t feel like I have anything to prove. Just here to have some fun.”

“I think it was definitely odd. And from my 27 years of racing, I’ve never missed a race. So yeah, one day, I’ll write a book about it. But as I said, I’m just grateful to be back,” concluded Hamilton.

Hamilton could extend his race wins tally to 12 for the season

Undoubtedly, Saturday’s sessions will prove to be a big test for Hamilton’s sharpness and racing ability. Qualifying, in particular, could be tricky on an elaborately designed Yas Marina Circuit.

That said, he performed quite well in both practice sessions, nearly matching Bottas for speed. However, come the final race of 2020, Hamilton’s only objective would lie in winning the race, en route also finally lifting the Drivers’ title.