Lewis Hamilton reveals…after informing Toto Wolff about Ferrari…read more
Lewis Hamilton has admitted that telling Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff about his decision to leave for Ferrari was a “terrifying” experience. The seven-time world champion will depart Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season after more than a decade with the team, marking a major shift in his quest for an eighth world title. Hamilton, who has won six of his seven Drivers’ Championships under Wolff’s leadership since joining Mercedes in 2013, described the emotional rollercoaster of making such a significant decision.
Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will be his first time driving for a non-Mercedes-powered team since starting his career with McLaren. His tenure at Mercedes is the longest any driver has spent with a single constructor in Formula 1, surpassing Michael Schumacher’s eleven seasons at Ferrari. Speaking to The Times, Hamilton reflected on the weight of the decision: “It was terrifying to tell my boss, but also so exciting. As a kid, I watched Michael [Schumacher] and every driver dreams of sitting in that red Ferrari cockpit.”
Hamilton has struggled to consistently challenge for race wins since narrowly missing out on an eighth championship title in the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Despite the recent setbacks, the 39-year-old remains optimistic about his future and feels he has grown as a driver. “I’m healthier than ever and in a great place physically and mentally. My reaction times are faster than the younger guys, and I believe I’m a better driver now than when I won my first title in 2008,” Hamilton said.
He went on to compare his current driving style to his younger years, noting that while he was once “ruthless” and full of energy, he now possesses more finesse and balance, skills that have made him a better leader and team player. Hamilton emphasized that being a top-tier driver is about more than just speed; it’s about being well-rounded and mastering every aspect of racing.
As Hamilton prepares for his final season with Mercedes, his upcoming move to Ferrari marks the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his storied career.
