Hamilton responds to defeat: "We never gave up"

Lewis Hamilton looked set to become an eight-time World Champion, but a late twist in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix gave Max Verstappen one last chance to overtake and the Dutchman took that chance with both hands. The Brit responds after losing the title for the first time since taking it in 2017.

Lewis Hamilton was quick to offer his congratulations to his rival Max Verstappen. The Brit also congratulated his own team for their hard work across the season. Mercedes won the constructors championship for an eighth consecutive season.

"Big congrats to Max and his team. We did a great job, all the men and women we have, have worked hard. I am so proud of them and so grateful. We gave it everything, we never gave up and that's the most important thing," Hamilton said in the post-session interview.

Hamilton is contracted to race in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Hamilton looks ahead and wishes everyone a good Christmas.

"I've been feeling good these past couple of months. If I am honest, I want people to stay safe and we'll see about next year," he added.