Lewis Hamilton, who is set to say goodbye at the end of the season, has signed a multi-year agreement with the dominant Italian team.
Hamilton has confirmed his unwavering loyalty to Mercedes for the upcoming season, despite his imminent move to Ferrari in 2025, which will mark the end of his successful tenure with the Silver Arrows.
The 39-year-old, who will bid farewell at the conclusion of the campaign, has secured a long-term contract with the Italian powerhouse.
Hamilton, aiming to conclude his 12-year spell with Mercedes on a positive note, winning six of his seven world championships since leaving McLaren, now faces the unique situation of completing the entire season with Mercedes while knowing he will switch to one of their main rivals.
Speaking to the media at the launch of Mercedes’ latest W15 challenger on Wednesday, Hamilton was firm in his statement that his focus remains solely on Mercedes for the duration of the season, without any intention of diverting attention to Ferrari before his impending move.
“Throughout the entire winter training, our focus is on restoring the team to its former glory,” he said.
“We have faced challenging years, which I believe have been a valuable learning experience for us. It has forced us to reassess our approach.
“We have had to reevaluate our strategies and now it is a matter of meticulously executing our tasks, analyzing the data, understanding the intricacies of the car, and optimizing our performance during practice.
“Even a single lap in the rain today could provide George [Russell] and me with valuable insights into what lies ahead.”
Reflecting on his return to Mercedes’ Brackley headquarters after announcing his agreement with Ferrari, Hamilton expressed deep emotions, describing the experience as “emotional” and “unreal.”
He said, “It is undeniably an emotional experience; it feels incredibly surreal to be here, considering my arrival in 2013, marking 11 years with the team.
“As I enter my 12th year, it is a great privilege to work with such a dedicated group of individuals who show unwavering commitment throughout the winter months.
Witnessing the culmination of our collective efforts as the car takes shape at the beginning of the season is undeniably thrilling.
“This is the first time I have seen the car’s development in its entirety, understanding the hidden intricacies.
While these elements may not be visible to the public, George and I are ready to experience them firsthand on the track, and that prospect is incredibly exciting.”
According to the Source formula1news.co.uk