In a surprising development for the motorsport community, seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has declared his departure from Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season to join Ferrari in 2025.
The announcement follows Hamilton’s activation of a release option in his contract with Mercedes after an 11-year partnership with the team. Toto Wolff, the team’s Principal and CEO, acknowledged the successful collaboration, stating, “Our relationship with Lewis has become the most successful the sport has seen… However, we knew our partnership would come to a natural end at some point, and that day has now come.”
Hamilton, who signed with Mercedes in 2013, expressed the difficulty of leaving a team that has been part of his life since the age of 13. Despite the emotional challenge, he emphasized his commitment to delivering the best performance in his final season with the Silver Arrows.
Ferrari officially confirmed the acquisition of Hamilton, stating, “We are pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract.” The move is expected to see Hamilton partnering with Charles Leclerc, as the Spanish driver Carlos Sainz is likely to be replaced.
The move comes after Hamilton signed a two-year contract extension with Mercedes in August of the previous year, though details about the presence of an exit clause remain unclear. As the motorsport community eagerly awaits the 2025 season, Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari adds an intriguing element to the Formula One landscape.
The upcoming Formula One season is set to kick off in Bahrain on February 29, and all eyes will be on Hamilton as he embarks on a new chapter with the iconic Ferrari team.
