Ferrari "a childhood dream" for Lewis Hamilton as he announces departure from Mercedes
Lewis Hamilton said driving for Ferrari is “a childhood dream” as he explained his reasons for joining the team in the 2025 Formula One season.
Lewis Hamilton will leave Mercedes for Ferrari at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season. (LAT Images/Mercedes-AMG Petronas)
Taking to social media on Saturday, Hamilton thanked those involved in his eleven years at the Mercedes-AMG F1 team, before stating “the time is right to make a change and take on a new challenge.”
“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,” said Hamilton.
“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.”
Hamilton also gave thanks to former Mercedes advisor Niki Lauder, who passed away in 2019.
Lewis Hamilton says driving for Ferrari is “a childhood dream.” (Sebastian Kawka/Mercedes-AMG Petronas)
“I cannot forget Niki who was a huge supporter and who I still miss everyday,” said the seven-time world champion.
Hamilton also hinted at the rationale behind the move, echoing his successful switch to Mercedes in 2013 ahead of the introduction of new technical regulations, which led to the most successful driver-team pairing of the 2010s.
He makes the move to Ferrari in similar circumstances, a year ahead of further new regulations in the sport in 2026.
“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.”
His focus, however, remains “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,” said Hamilton.”
“I am 100% committed to the job I need to do and determined to end my partnership with the team on a high.”
Hamilton will begin the 2024 Formula One season with Mercedes at the Bahrain Grand Prix, 1-3 March.
Watch every session of the 2024 Formula One season live in 4K on Kayo Sports.
