Lewis Hamilton declares Ferrari move a chance at fulfilling a ‘childhood dream’

Days after shocking the F1 world, Lewis Hamilton has announced his decision to join Ferrari in 2025. seasons on social media.

Hamilton was quoted briefly in Mercedes’ statement announcing the decision: “This is the right time for me to take this step and I am excited to take on this new challenge.” However, he expanded on his decision: Saturday social media postsHe opened his statement by saying that moving to Ferrari was an opportunity to realize a childhood dream.

“After achieving things with Mercedes that I could only have dreamed of as a child, I feel incredibly lucky to now have the opportunity to realize another childhood dream. Driving in a red Ferrari. “We’re doing it,” Hamilton said.

The champion then paid tribute to the entire Mercedes team, including the two leaders who have shaped his life for more than 20 years.

“Mercedes has been a big part of my life since I was 13 years old, so this decision was the hardest one I’ve ever made. I’m extremely proud of everything we’ve achieved together. I am extremely grateful for the hard work and dedication of everyone I have worked with over the years, and of course TOTO. [Wolff], for his friendship, guidance, and leadership. Together we won titles, broke records and became the most successful driver and team partnership in F1 history.And of course I can’t forget Niki. [Lauda] He was a huge supporter and I still miss him every day,” Hamilton said.

“I also have to share my huge gratitude to the entire Mercedes-Benz Board of Directors and everyone at the company in Germany and around the world who have supported me over the last 26 years.”

Hamilton then addressed his decision to join Ferrari, saying now was the right time to make a change and take on a new challenge in his career.

“But the time has come to make a change and take on new challenges.

“When I first joined Mercedes in 2013, I still remember how I felt when I took the leap of faith into the unknown.I’m sure some people didn’t understand it at the time, but it was a decision I made at that time. was right, and that’s how I feel now.” See you now. I look forward to seeing what I can bring to this new opportunity and what we can do together,” said Hamilton.

He then spoke about the upcoming season, which will be his last with Mercedes.

And he wants to end one of F1’s most successful partnerships on a high.

“But at the moment I’m not thinking about 2025. My focus is next season and getting back on track with Mercedes,” Hamilton said. “I am more motivated than ever, fitter and more focused than ever and I want to help Mercedes win again.

“I am 100% committed to the job I have to do and am determined to end my partnership with the team on a high note.”

You can read the seven-time champion’s full statement here.