Lewis Hamilton’s father, Anthony, said that the seven-time World Champion was largely responsible for the blockbuster Ferrari sale.
The F1 2024’silly season’ was always expected to be a busy one given the large number of drivers without contracts for the following year, but Hamilton guaranteed that it got off to a very early and crazy start with his massive preseason statement.
Did Lewis Hamilton keep Ferrari deal quiet? ‘Kind of, yes’
Before a wheel was turned in F1 2024, it was announced that Hamilton will quit Mercedes at the end of the season to join Ferrari, bringing this dream combination of Formula One’s most successful driver and team to fruition after years of conjecture.
Hamilton had apparently not informed his parents that the contract was being worked on, with his father Anthony confirming this to Viaplay on the grid ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where Hamilton placed ninth.
“Kind of, yes,” Anthony said when asked if Hamilton had told his parents he was in talks with Ferrari.
“The fact is, it is his business. I always have a feeling I know what’s going on, but it’s his deal and his choice.”
Hamilton began his Formula One career with McLaren in 2007, and the following season he became World Champion for the first time.
By 2012, he had made his first surprise team swap move, declaring that he will become a Mercedes driver in 2013.
Hamilton has now experienced record-breaking success with Mercedes, winning six more World Championships, but Anthony believes Ferrari is the big one, the team that all drivers aspire to race for, and a deal that fulfills a shared dream for father and son.
When asked if Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is also in his dreams, Anthony replied, “Yes, it is part of both my and his dreams.
“You know, it’s one of those situations where, as a kid, you always wanted to race for Ferrari.
“And we love all of the past teams, McLaren and Mercedes, but it’s the ultimate dream to be in a red car.”
Hamilton will find Charles Leclerc on the other side of the garage when he joins Ferrari.
