In a monumental move, Lewis Hamilton will depart Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season to join Formula One rivals, Ferrari, on a multi-year deal starting in 2025. The 39-year-old had signed a two-year contract with Mercedes last summer, which reportedly included a break clause after just one year that he has now chosen to activate.
Hamilton has spent the past 11 years with Mercedes, winning seven world championships and securing 82 of his record 103 race victories with the team. Commenting on his move to Ferrari, Hamilton stated that “the time is right for me to take this step and I’m excited to be taking on a new challenge.” He also expressed gratitude to his Mercedes family, particularly team principal Toto Wolff, for their support throughout his career.
Hamilton’s transfer is one of the biggest driver swaps in Formula One history and will see him partner with Charles Leclerc in 2025. Meanwhile, current Ferrari driver, Carlos Sainz, will complete his final year with the team this season before departing. Sainz announced his departure via social media, stating that news about his future will be revealed in due course.
Reflecting on Hamilton’s departure, Wolff noted that the pairing of Mercedes and Hamilton had become “the most successful the sport has seen.” However, he added that “Hamilton’s decision to leave at the end of 2024 gives us time to prepare for the future and to try and build on the legacy that he will leave behind.” With the 2021 Formula One season still ongoing, Hamilton reiterated his commitment to delivering his best performance with the Silver Arrows in his final year
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