Hamilton shares emotional statement after sensational Ferrari news

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Hamilton issues lengthy statement on move to Ferrari
3 February at 13:28
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  • Kada Sarkozi
  • Editor

Lewis Hamilton has responded for the first time to the news that rocked the Formula 1 world: he is swapping Mercedes for the Ferrari team in 2025. In a long, emotional statement, he goes into detail about his decision for the first time.

Hamilton makes emotional statement after Ferrari news

"It’s been a crazy few days which have been filled with a whole range of emotions," he begins his statement on social media. "But as you all now know, after an incredible 11 years at Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, the time has come for me to start a new chapter in my life and I will be joining Scuderia Ferrari in 2025."

He continued: "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."

Hamilton: 'Move to Ferrari hardest decision ever'

The 39-year-old Briton continued that this is the hardest decision he has ever had to make, as Mercedes has been a big part of his life. "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," he said.

"Together we have won titles, broken records and become the most successful Driver-Team partnership in F1 history. And of course I cannot forget Niki [Lauda] who was a huge supporter and who I still miss everyday."

Hamilton takes on new challenge at Ferrari

Hamilton says he is immensely grateful to Mercedes for all the support he has received throughout his motorsports career. "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," he continued.

"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 is not on 2025 at the moment, the seven-time world champion explains. "My focus is 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. I am 100% committed to the job I need to do and determined to end my partnership with the team on a high," Hamilton said.