Hamilton Shares Reasons for His Surprise Switch to Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton has opened up about his surprising decision to join Ferrari in 2025.

Mark Phelan

By Mark Phelan
Published on February 5, 2024

Reviewed and checked by Lee Parker

Lewi Hamilton Jumping With Mercedes Mechancis

Lewis Hamilton has recently shed light on his surprising decision to transition to Ferrari in 2025.

This revelation came after the official announcement on Thursday evening that Hamilton is set to join the iconic Italian racing team after the 2024 season concludes, bringing to an end an extraordinary 11-year tenure with Mercedes.

During his remarkable stint with Mercedes, the 39-year-old driver clinched six of his seven world titles and shattered numerous records, including achieving the most race wins, the highest number of pole positions, and the most podium finishes in Formula 1 history.

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His transfer has taken the Formula 1 world by surprise, leaving an empty seat at Mercedes and casting uncertainty on Carlos Sainz‘s career, as the British driver is set to take over the Spaniard’s position and team up with Charles Leclerc.

Hamilton expresses excitement for new chapter with Ferrari

The seven-time world champion has now voiced his thoughts on leaving Mercedes for a new venture.

Through an extensive post on his X account, Hamilton revealed insights into what he described as a ‘crazy few days’ for both himself and the sport, seizing the opportunity to achieve his lifelong ambition of driving for the team based in Maranello.

“It’s been a crazy few days which have been filled with a whole range of emotions.

“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 everyday.

“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. I am more driven than ever, I am fitter and more focussed than than ever and I want to help Mercedes win once again. I am 100% committed to the job I need to do and determined to end my partnership with the team on a high.

“Thank you to all of you who have been on this journey with me, you have all lifted me up as I chase my dreams and I hope I can continue to make you proud. As always, sending you my love and positive energy.”

Source

GPFans.com

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About The Author

Senior Editor

Mark Phelan
Mark Phelan

Mark is a staff writer specialising in the history of Formula 1 races. Mark researches most of our historic content from teams to drivers and races. He has followed Formula 1 since 1988, and admits to having a soft spot for British drivers from James Hunt and Nigel Mansell to Lando Norris. He loves a great F1 podcast and has read pretty much every drivers biography.

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