Lewis Hamilton’s highly anticipated move to Ferrari in Formula 1 has been widely known for almost a month now. However, it wasn’t until the third day of testing that Hamilton finally addressed the topic in depth. This was not due to any secrecy surrounding the contract, but rather the timing of the discussions. While Hamilton did mention the move on social media, it wasn’t a central topic during the Mercedes launch. It was only on the final day of the pre-season test in Bahrain that he faced the assembled media and was inevitably questioned about his future after Mercedes.
Even in a press conference with multiple drivers, Hamilton’s move to Ferrari in 2025 became a significant part of the agenda. This gave him the opportunity to clarify some aspects of his decision, although there were still some undisclosed factors. Toto Wolff, the boss of Mercedes F1, viewed Hamilton’s decision to join a rival team shortly after signing a contract extension as a change of heart from the seven-time champion. However, it was a possibility that both parties had acknowledged.
Although the two-year extension with Mercedes included an exit clause after one year, enabling the move to Ferrari, Hamilton insists that the move wasn’t initially planned when he signed the original agreement. It was only at the end of 2023 that he received an offer that caught his attention. Hamilton described it as the most difficult decision he has ever had to make, considering his long history with Mercedes. However, he felt it was time to start a new chapter and write his own story.
The allure of driving for Ferrari has always been present for Hamilton, as it has been for many F1 legends. He mentioned watching Michael Schumacher in his prime and dreaming of being surrounded by the iconic red cockpit. The sight of the passionate Ferrari fans at the Italian Grand Prix also left a lasting impression on him. Hamilton expressed his excitement about fulfilling this dream and joining Ferrari.
Interestingly, Hamilton acknowledged that part of the appeal of joining Ferrari is the team’s current lack of success in recent years. Ferrari has not won the F1 drivers’ title since 2007 and the constructors’ title since 2008. Hamilton sees this as a significant challenge and an opportunity to make a difference.
Throughout his time at Mercedes, Hamilton has been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the sport. He has used his platform to address the lack of diversity in the paddock and has invested in creating more opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds in STEM industries. Continuing this work was always a priority for Hamilton, regardless of his team. He expressed pride in the progress made within Mercedes and his intention to work closely with Formula 1 and Ferrari to further improve diversity in the sport.
Another factor that influenced Hamilton’s decision was his relationship with Fred Vasseur, a former team boss in lower racing categories. Hamilton and Vasseur had success together in Formula 3 and GP2, and their bond remained strong over the years. When Vasseur joined Ferrari as team manager, Hamilton saw it as a perfect opportunity. He credits Vasseur for making the move to Ferrari possible and is excited about the work he will do there.
While the reasons for Hamilton’s move to Ferrari are primarily focused on the appeal of the team and the challenges it presents, it’s important to note that the decision was a mutual agreement between Hamilton and Mercedes. Mercedes agreed to the escape clause in the contract, and Hamilton acknowledges that the team did not offer him the long-term commitment he desired. The specific triggers for Hamilton’s decision and any concerns about Mercedes’ trajectory will likely be discussed at a more appropriate time, as he remains fully focused on delivering for the team in his final season.
Hamilton emphasized that his chapter with Mercedes is not yet finished, and he is fully committed to achieving success with the team this year. He has faith in the team and hopes to close the gap to rival team Red Bull. While the future will reveal Hamilton’s true feelings about Mercedes’ approach to the contract and their prospects, for now, there are still 24 races ahead for him to make his mark and further solidify his legacy in the sport.
According to the Source the-race.com