Lewis Hamilton reveals 'crazy few days' after Ferrari switch in emotional post
LEWIS HAMILTON admits he has been overcome with emotion in the “crazy few days” since his departure from Mercedes was confirmed.
This week it was announced that the Stevenage speedster will do the same TO LEAVE Mercedes at the end of the season after the expiry of his contract.
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Hamilton, 39, has already signed a deal to join F1 powerhouses Ferrari next one years into what has been a rollercoaster of a week emotionally and professionally.
He said: “It's been a crazy few days, filled with a whole range of emotions.
But as you all now know, after an incredible 11 years with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, the time has come for me to start a new chapter in my life and I will be joining Scuderia Ferrari in 2025.
“I feel incredibly lucky, after achieving things with Mercedes that I could only have dreamed of as a child, that I now have the opportunity to fulfill another childhood dream. The driving in Ferrari red.”
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The decision to leave Mercedes was one that Hamilton, who joined the Brackley-based team in 2013, did not take lightly.
The seven-time world champion said: “Mercedes has played a big role in my life since I was thirteen years old, so this decision was the hardest I have ever had to make.”
Six of Hamilton's seven title wins came during his time at Mercedes, victories which he admits would not have been possible without Toto Wolff and the late Niki Lauda.
He said: “I am incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together and I am very grateful for the hard work and dedication of everyone I have worked with over the years.
“And of course Toto, for his friendship, guidance and leadership.
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“Together we have won titles, broken records and become the most successful driver-team partnership in F1 history.
And of course I can't forget Niki, who was a great supporter and who I still miss every day.
“I must also share my enormous appreciation with the entire Mercedes-Benz board and everyone within the company Germany and around the world for their support during these 26 years.
'But the time is ripe to implement change and take on a new challenge.
“I still remember the feeling of taking a leap into the unknown when I first joined Mercedes in 2013.
“I know some people didn't understand it at the time, but I was right when I made the switch and it's the feeling I have again now.”
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Hamilton is looking forward to the new chapter of his legendary career but is not letting it distract him from his bid to win a record-breaking eighth world title this season.
He said: “I'm excited to see what I can add to this new opportunity and what we can do together.
“At the moment, however, I am not thinking about 2025. My focus is on the coming season and getting back on track with Mercedes.”
“I am more driven than ever, I am fitter and more focused than ever and I want to help Mercedes win again.
“I am 100 percent committed to the work I have to do and am determined to end my collaboration with the team on a high.
“Thank you to all of you who have been on this journey with me, you have all lifted me up as I chase my dreams and I hope I can continue to make you proud.
“As always, I send you my love and positivity energy.”