In what was one of the most dramatic ends to a championship season ever, Max Verstappen won the world championship by passing Lewis Hamilton on the last lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Mercedes driver was leading the race from start until the last lap but did not pit under the safety car.

Hamilton was looking to become the greatest driver of all time by winning an unprecedented eighth world championship. But it wasn’t meant to be. Many drivers, such as Sebastian Vettel and Mick Schumacher, were consoling the 7-time world champion.

It was a nice gesture from the two drivers to go up to Lewis and wish him the best and congratulate him for his effort.

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Lewis Hamilton remains gracious after the race to congratulate Max

As reported by Sky Sports, the Brit was reasonably disappointed but showed pure class while congratulating his championship rival. In the race, Hamilton did not put a foot wrong and did everything to keep Verstappen at bay.

But luck was not on the side of the 7-time world champion.

“Firstly congratulations to Max and to his team. I think we did an amazing job this year. My team, everyone back at the factory, have worked so hard this whole year, it’s been the most difficult of seasons. I’m so proud of them and I’m so grateful to be a part of the journey with them.” said Hamilton.

“This last part of the season we gave it absolutely everything and never gave up,” concluded Lewis.

It was not all in vain as he guided Mercedes to an eighth constructors’ championship. The German team broke the record held by Ferrari by winning eight consecutive championships. Hamilton will look to bounce back strongly next season and break the record of Michael Schumacher.

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