2024 Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Highlights

We’ve been consistently plugging away, scoring points all season long from the beginning to the end, so flair play to us – we’ve done so well considering where we were last year. That’s what I’m mostly happy and proud about; it was fun to be part of the process and part of the team. I’ve really enjoyed myself these past two years and I’m leaving happy and with a smile – a big thank you to this team, it’s been probably the most enjoyable time in my Formula 1 career.

The first lap went right, from P14 to P7, which was one good thing about this race. I had a slow pit stop that screwed my race, and after the second pit stop, I got run into by Bottas, so it was definitely over then. It’s not the way I wanted to end the season, but we gave it a go. I tried something special on that first lap and went for it – gaining seven positions. Since returning, I think we’ve managed to turn the team around and get it on the right track, especially in the last half of this year, and I’m proud of that. I was a small kid dreaming about Formula 1 25 years ago, and I managed to get 10 years in the sport I was desperately dreaming of being a part of – it’s been a privilege.

We knew we all had to go for it, and at the end of lap 1, it was looking great because Nico was in P5, and Kevin had another amazing first lap from P14 to P7. Then, unfortunately, Kevin’s first stop was slow, and that’s unfortunate as our pit crew has been amazing this year. However, at this critical moment, Kevin came out in traffic, which really compromised his race. As Kevin was stuck in traffic, we pitted him again and on his out lap, Bottas locked up and damaged Kevin’s car. He was very unlucky. I wanted Kevin to sign off well, as he’s done so much and he’s a part of the family, but we couldn’t finish with a points-scoring position with him.

On Nico’s side he drove really well, but being in traffic all the time is really difficult. The execution of his one-stop race was very good, and in normal circumstances, coming home in P8 and scoring another four points would be a thing to celebrate, so I think we did the best job we could with Nico.

In terms of championship position, it’s, of course, bittersweet because we’re P7 – but we’re going for P6, but we couldn’t achieve it. I think everyone after the race understands that at the start of the season if somebody said we’re going to finish P7, we’d be very happy. This year has been an amazing year, everybody working together, every department. We have things to improve; that’s part of the process, but we’re going to come back stronger next year. For now, I want us to recognize what an amazing season we’ve had, and I hope everyone is proud of what they’ve achieved and enjoy the moment. I’m very proud of everyone on this team.