MAJOR TRANSFER IN FORMULA 1: LEWIS HAMILTON JOINS FERRARI
British driver Lewis Hamilton, who has won seven world championships in Formula 1, will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season to join Ferrari.
The 39-year-old driver had signed a two-year contract with Mercedes last summer, which included an option for a third year. However, a clause in the contract allowed both parties to part ways after the first year.
Hamilton, who decided to exercise this option, stated, "Mercedes has been a part of my life since I was 13 years old. It’s where I grew up. Therefore, the decision to leave was one of the hardest I’ve ever made." He expressed that it was the right time to make this move, that he was excited to start a new challenge, and that he felt "immense pride" for the achievements he had attained during his 11 years with Mercedes. "I will always be grateful to the Mercedes family, especially to Toto Wolff for his friendship and leadership. I am 100% committed to delivering my best performance this season and making my final year with Mercedes unforgettable,” Hamilton added.
The legendary driver, who won six world championships with Mercedes over his 11-year tenure, has struggled to regain his former form in the last two seasons. Hamilton has not secured a race victory or topped the podium since 2021, during a period dominated by Red Bull.
The 39-year-old will team up with Charles Leclerc at Ferrari, a team that has not won a championship in 17 years.
Hamilton joined Mercedes from McLaren in 2013. Meanwhile, four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel recently fueled rumors of a return to Formula 1 with Audi by posting on social media, "Preparing for next season." The prospect of Vettel's comeback, combined with Hamilton’s transfer, has heightened the excitement among F1 enthusiasts for the 2025 season.
Lewis Hamilton will earn a salary of $128 million from Ferrari.