Lewis Hamilton has broken his silence on his shock switch from Mercedes to Ferrari by penning an emotional statement on social media. The 39-year-old will leave Mercedes for a new challenge at the end of the 2024 season in a blockbuster move that sent shockwaves through the F1 world.
Hamilton signed a new two-year contract with the Silver Arrows last year. However, he has triggered a break clause, which will allow him to terminate his deal before 2025.
The seven-time world champion has been the face of Mercedes’ success over the last decade, winning 103 races and earning 104 pole positions, making him the most successful driver in F1 history.
He will partner George Russell on the grid this year before teaming up with Charles Leclerc in Ferrari red, replacing Carlos Sainz.
Hamilton has paid tribute to his illustrious Mercedes career and expressed his excitement about a “dream” move to Ferrari.
“It’s been a crazy few days which have been filled with a whole range of emotions,” Hamilton wrote.
“But as you all now know, after an incredible 11 years at Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, the time has come for me to start a new chapter in my life and I will be joining Scuderia Ferrari in 2025.
“I feel incredibly fortunate, after achieving things with Mercedes that I could only have dreamed of as a kid, that I now have the chance to fulfil another childhood dream. Driving in Ferrari red.
“Mercedes has been a huge part of my life since I was 13 years old, so this decision has been the hardest I’ve ever had to make.
“I’m incredibly proud of all that we’ve achieved together, and I’m very grateful for the hard work and dedication of everyone I have worked with over the years and, of course, Toto for his friendship, guidance and leadership.
“Together, we have won titles, broken records, and become the most successful Driver-Team partnership in F1 history. And, of course, I cannot forget Niki, who was a huge supporter and who I still miss every day.
“I must also share my huge appreciation to the whole of the Mercedes-Benz board and everyone at the company in Germany and around the world for supporting me over these 26 years.
“But the time is right to make a change and take on a new challenge. I still remember the feeling of taking a leap of faith into the unknown when I first joined Mercedes in 2013.
“I know some people didn’t understand it at the time, but I was right to make the move then, and it’s the feeling I have again now. I’m excited to see what I can bring to this new opportunity and what we can do together.
“However, right now, I’m not thinking about 2025. My focus is on the upcoming season and getting back out on track with Mercedes.”
Hamilton still has a job to do with Toto Wolff and the Mercedes team this year, though, to reclaim the Constructors’ Championship and end Red Bull’s recent dominance.
