In an unexpected turn of events, Formula One legend Lewis Hamilton has confirmed a sensational switch to Ferrari for the 2025 season on a multiyear contract. Despite signing a new two-year contract with Mercedes last year, the seven-time world champion exercised a release option, allowing him to part ways with Mercedes after the upcoming season.
Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes, where he achieved monumental success, was revealed on Thursday. The 39-year-old driver expressed that leaving Mercedes was one of the most challenging decisions he has ever had to make. He emphasized that the timing is right for him to take on a new challenge, and he is excited to make his last year with the Silver Arrows one to remember.
Ferrari, F1’s most successful team, confirmed the move, revealing that Hamilton would replace Carlos Sainz in 2025. This announcement raises questions such as, “Did Lewis Hamilton leave Mercedes?” and “Why is Lewis Hamilton leaving Mercedes?”. The surprising switch comes after Hamilton’s recent contract extension with Mercedes, making it a topic of considerable intrigue and speculation.
Hamilton, tied with Ferrari legend Michael Schumacher with seven titles, now has a chance to end the Italian team’s drought and move clear as F1’s most decorated champion in the process. If successful, he would become the first driver to win championships with three different teams since Juan Manuel Fangio in 1957.
Rumors of Hamilton joining Ferrari have been common throughout his career, but Thursday’s news still appeared to come out of the blue. Even Mercedes was reportedly caught off guard, as they have not yet confirmed a driver to replace him. The move aligns with Ferrari chairman John Elkann’s long-time admiration for Hamilton’s ability.
The identity of Hamilton’s replacement at Mercedes will be a major talking point for the upcoming season. The departure marks the end of an era, with Mercedes acknowledging that their partnership with Hamilton was expected to come to a natural end at some point. The question remains, who will fill the void left by the departure of the iconic driver.
As Hamilton embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari, the Formula 1 community eagerly awaits more details, and the dynamics of the 2025 season take an unexpected turn.
