Lewis Hamilton to move to Ferrari in 2025
Lewis Hamilton Announces Shock Move to Ferrari for 2025 Season
In a seismic shift for Formula 1, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has announced his departure from Mercedes to join Ferrari for the 2025 season and beyond. Hamilton, whose illustrious career has been intertwined with Mercedes since 2013, described the decision as "one of the hardest I have ever had to make."
Having clinched six of his seven world titles with Mercedes, Hamilton's move marks the end of an era for the Silver Arrows. Despite reaffirming his commitment to Mercedes just last summer with a contract extension through 2025, the British driver has opted for a new challenge with the iconic Italian team.
Hamilton's decision follows two challenging seasons for Mercedes, who have struggled to adapt to F1's latest ground effect era, finding themselves trailing behind Red Bull in performance. The prospect of a fresh start with Ferrari, alongside rising star Charles Leclerc, was undoubtedly a key factor in Hamilton's choice.
The move also spells the end of Carlos Sainz's tenure at Ferrari, with the Spaniard set to depart at the conclusion of the current season to accommodate Hamilton's arrival.
In a statement released on Thursday evening, Mercedes confirmed their amicable parting with Hamilton, who activated a release clause in his contract. Shortly after, Ferrari officially announced Hamilton's signing on a multi-year deal, heralding a new chapter in the legendary driver's career.
Reflecting on his departure from Mercedes, Hamilton expressed gratitude for the team that has been instrumental in his journey to greatness. "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team, and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together," he remarked. "Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make."
Hamilton's focus now shifts to delivering a stellar performance in his final season with Mercedes, aiming to leave on a high note alongside the team that has been his home for over a decade.
As the countdown begins to his highly anticipated debut with Ferrari, the motorsport world braces for a thrilling new chapter in the storied career of Lewis Hamilton.