London, UK – In a bombshell announcement, Formula One witnessed a historic driver swap as Lewis Hamilton confirmed his departure from Mercedes to join rivals Ferrari for the 2025 season.
The seven-time world champion, contracted with Mercedes until 2025, exercised a release clause, the Silver Arrows announced on social media.
Meanwhile, Ferrari enthusiastically revealed Hamilton’s signing on a “multi-year contract.”
Hamilton, in a heartfelt message, acknowledged his Mercedes journey: “An amazing 11 years… incredibly proud of what we achieved together. Mercedes has been my life since I was 13. Leaving was one of the hardest decisions, but it’s time for a new challenge.”
The 39-year-old, tied with Michael Schumacher for most F1 titles, joined Mercedes in 2013 after starting with McLaren. Their partnership yielded a dominant period with six championship wins in seven years.
Despite recent struggles for Mercedes, Hamilton extended his contract last August. However, in a surprise move, he’ll now race for one of their fiercest competitors.
“We knew our partnership would end,” said Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff. “We accept Lewis’s decision and are excited for our future.”
Mercedes finished second in the 2023 constructor standings, just ahead of Ferrari. Both teams trailed a dominant Red Bull.
Hamilton will partner with Charles Leclerc at Ferrari in 2025, replacing Carlos Sainz. Sainz confirmed his departure at the end of 2024, with future plans to be announced soon.
F1 pundit Phil Duncan, speaking to CNN Sport, highlighted the significance of the move: “No wins in two years for Hamilton is unprecedented. At 39, this might be his last chance at a big move, his dream of driving for Ferrari. This is likely the biggest transfer in F1 history, breathing new life into the sport.”
