Lewis Hamilton Reflects on Ferrari Move in Emotional Statement

In a surprising turn of events, Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, has broken his silence after the shocking announcement of his departure from Mercedes to join Ferrari in 2025, fulfilling a ‘childhood dream.’

Hamilton, 39, who won six of his world titles with Mercedes, posted an emotional statement alongside pictures of his achievements with the team. In the heartfelt message, he expressed gratitude to the current and former staff at Mercedes and acknowledged the difficulty of leaving the team after an incredible 11-year stint.

“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 everyday.

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari had been a subject of rumors in the F1 paddock last year, and despite signing a two-year deal with Mercedes in August 2023, he has already committed to joining Ferrari after the upcoming 2024 season.

The British racing driver conveyed his excitement about driving in Ferrari red, describing it as another childhood dream come true. Hamilton acknowledged Mercedes’ role in his life since he was 13 and credited the team for achieving remarkable success together, including breaking records and becoming the most successful driver-team partnership in F1 history.

“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.

While expressing appreciation for Mercedes-Benz’s support over 26 years, Hamilton emphasized that the time was right for a change and a new challenge. He drew parallels between his decision to join Mercedes in 2013 and the current move to Ferrari, highlighting his excitement about the unknown.

Despite the focus on the future with Ferrari, Hamilton emphasized his commitment to the upcoming season with Mercedes. He stated his determination to end his partnership with the team on a high note, expressing excitement about the new opportunity while keeping his immediate focus on the current season.

“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.”

Hamilton concluded the statement by thanking those who have been part of his journey and expressing his dedication to chasing his dreams. The racing icon reassured fans of his commitment and determination as he prepares for the challenges ahead.