Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, has made headlines with a monumental announcement: he is leaving Mercedes to join Ferrari for the 2025 season. This decision marks the end of a remarkable era for both Hamilton and Mercedes, who have dominated the sport for over a decade together.
Hamilton’s tenure at Mercedes spanned 12 seasons, during which he secured six World Championships and celebrated 84 Grand Prix victories, solidifying their legacy as one of the most successful partnerships in Formula 1 history. However, in recent years, both Hamilton and Mercedes faced challenges, especially in competing against the formidable Red Bull Racing team, managing only two race wins since 2022. This downturn likely influenced Hamilton’s desire to pursue new challenges.
Joining Ferrari represents more than just a team switch; it fulfills a lifelong dream for many drivers. The iconic Scuderia Ferrari, known for its rich history and fervent fanbase, provides Hamilton with an opportunity to potentially add another title to his career. If he wins a championship with Ferrari, he will join the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio as the only driver to achieve titles with three different teams.
Ferrari is proactively preparing for Hamilton’s arrival, making adjustments to their 2025 car, code-named Project 677, to better fit his preferences. The team is also set to welcome Hamilton’s race engineer, Ricardo Adami, who has previously worked with top drivers. Hamilton is bringing part of his entourage, suggesting a desire for continuity as he transitions into this new environment.
The impact of Hamilton’s move on the 2025 season is significant. Partnering with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc promises to create a formidable driver lineup, potentially challenging Red Bull’s supremacy. In his first statement as a Ferrari driver, Hamilton expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming challenges, indicating his commitment to securing a record-breaking eighth World Championship.
The Formula 1 community has reacted with a mix of excitement and skepticism, with some former drivers questioning Hamilton’s ability to lead Ferrari as Michael Schumacher once did. Nonetheless, this shift, alongside other changes in the sport, signals an evolving landscape as Formula 1 prepares for a new regulatory era in 2026.
As we anticipate the 2025 season, key milestones include the launch of Ferrari’s 2025 car on February 19 and a three-day preseason test at Bahrain, leading up to the season opener at the Australian Grand Prix on March 16. Hamilton leaves behind a profound legacy at Mercedes, having shattered numerous records, and now embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari, eager to make history once again.
