WATCH: Lewis Hamilton Shares a Respectful Moment With Former F1 Rival Kimi Raikkonen Ahead of His Final Race

Kimi Raikkonen, the only remaining Ferrari world champion on the grid, finally bid adieu to Formula One following the 2021 season. And, of course, it was quite emotional to watch one of the most loved racing drivers calling it quits, as his former rival, Lewis Hamilton, couldn’t hide his emotions either.

Prior to the start of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Hamilton and Raikkonen engaged in a very short yet effective conversation, as they wished each other good luck ahead of what was arguably the most important race of their careers.

Formula One F1 – Hungarian Grand Prix – Hungaroring, Budapest, Hungary – July 29, 2021 Alfa Romeo’s Kimi Raikkonen during a press conference ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix Pool via REUTERS/Florion Goga

For Raikkonen, it was going to be the final race of his 20-year long racing career in F1. Meanwhile, for Hamilton, the outcome of the race was going to dictate whether he is the sport’s ‘Greatest of All Time’. However, for both the drivers, the end result was quite a bit disappointing.

Raikkonen had to retire from the race citing technical problems while the seven-time world champion ended up losing his championship title right at the cusp of the chequered flag.

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Lewis Hamilton thanks Kimi Raikkonen for his F1 contribution

Prior to the driver’s parade, Hamilton and Raikkonen had a short conversation on the track near the start-finish line. The Briton can be heard thanking his fellow racing colleague for his contributions to the sport. “Thank you man for everything you’ve done for the sport,” he said.

Raikkonen acknowledged with a brief smile before wishing Hamilton luck ahead of his title-deciding race at Yas Marina. “All the best today!”

The Iceman’s last dance

After 21 years in the sport, we said goodbye to a legend in Abu Dhabi! Go behind the scenes of Kimi’s final race in F1#F1

— Formula 1 (@F1) February 4, 2022

Finally, Hamilton replied, “Thank you man“, before the two walked away to the open-roof bus. Of course, it is not all over for Hamilton who is eyeing a strong finish to his career after an awry end to 2021. He could’ve broken Michael Schumacher’s title record with ease only for the stewards to play spoilsport in his pursuit.

Nonetheless, a couple more years of racing await the Briton who is keen on attaining his eighth title in F1. So, amid bigger opportunities ahead, can Hamilton prove to the world that he indeed is the GOAT? Or will the next-gen drivers deny him the impeccable target?

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