While his dream Ferrari move awaits, Lewis Hamilton has confirmed his commitment to Mercedes for one final season, stating he “can’t wait” to get starting in F1 2024.
Hamilton will be a Ferrari driver starting in 2025, with Formula One’s most successful driver and team joining forces in an unexpected announcement.
However, there is essential business to attend to first, as Hamilton has a final season in the colours of Mercedes, with whom he has won six of his seven World Championships.]
Lewis Hamilton energised for final Mercedes season
Hamilton will undoubtedly want to leave Mercedes on a high note, and a record-breaking seventh World Championship would provide him with just that.
Whatever happens, Hamilton has resorted to social media to thank his supporters for their love and support as he prepares for the upcoming Formula 1 season.
“The past few days have been all love,” he stated in an email.
“Thank you all; your energy and support mean everything. I can’t wait to start the season. “2024 is all ours.”
This follows Hamilton’s previous social media message, in which he discussed his “leap of faith” transition to Ferrari as he prepares to live out another “childhood dream”.
“It’s been a crazy few days which have been filled with a whole range of emotions,” he told reporters.
“But, as you all know, after an incredible 11 years at Mercedes, the time has come for me to embark on a new chapter in my life, and I will be joining Ferrari in 2025.”
“I feel extremely lucky that after achieving things with Mercedes that I could only have imagined as a youngster, I now have the opportunity to realize another boyhood goal. Driving in Ferrari Red.
“Mercedes has been an important part of my life since I was 13 years old, so this decision has been the most difficult I’ve ever had to make.
“I’m extremely proud of everything we’ve accomplished together, and I’m grateful for the hard work and dedication of everyone I’ve worked with over the years, particularly Toto [Wolff, team principal], for his friendship, guidance, and leadership.”
“Together, we have won titles, broken records, and become the most successful driver-team combination in Formula One history.
“And, of course, I can’t forget Niki [Lauda, former non-executive chairman], who was a huge supporter and whom I still miss every day.”
“I must also express my heartfelt gratitude to the whole Mercedes-Benz board of directors, as well as everyone at the firm in Germany and around the world, for their unwavering support over the past 26 years.
“But now is the time to make a change and take on a new challenge.” When I first joined Mercedes in 2013, I recall feeling like I was taking a leap of faith into unfamiliar territory.
“I know some people didn’t understand it at the time, but I was right to make the move, and I still feel the same way now.” I am anxious to see what I can contribute to this new opportunity and what we can accomplish together.
“However, just now, I am not worrying about 2025. My emphasis is on the upcoming season and getting back on the track with Mercedes.
“I am more motivated than ever, fitter and more focused than before, and I want to help Mercedes win again. I am completely committed to the job at hand and motivated to conclude my collaboration with the team on a good note.
“Thank you to everyone who has been on this journey with me; you have all lifted me up as I pursue my dreams, and I hope to continue to make you proud.” As always, I send you my love and wonderful energy.”
When Hamilton joins Ferrari in 2025, he will partner together with Charles Leclerc.
