Lewis Hamilton's Move to Ferrari: The Inside Story

TLDRLewis Hamilton announced his move to Ferrari in 2025, revealing that he exercised the break clause in his Mercedes contract. Tensions at the Mercedes headquarters remain low as Hamilton drives the simulator of this year's car. Toto Wolf, the Mercedes team principal, explained that the decision was not a surprise and that Hamilton needed something fresh at this stage of his career. The move to Ferrari offers Hamilton more longevity and better financial terms. Mercedes is now focused on finding a replacement and ensuring they have the fastest car in F1.

Key insights

🏎️Lewis Hamilton announced his move to Ferrari, exercising the break clause in his Mercedes contract.

🔄Tensions at the Mercedes headquarters remain low as business continues as usual.

💼Toto Wolf, the Mercedes team principal, explained that Hamilton's decision was not a surprise and that he needed something fresh at this stage of his career.

💰Hamilton's move to Ferrari offers him better financial terms, making him possibly the highest-paid driver in Formula 1.

🔍Mercedes is now focused on finding a replacement and ensuring they have the fastest car in F1.

Q&A

Why did Lewis Hamilton choose to leave Mercedes?

Hamilton wanted something fresh and a new challenge at this stage of his career. The opportunity to race for Ferrari fulfilled that ambition.

What are the financial terms of Hamilton's deal with Ferrari?

The exact financial details have not been disclosed, but it is expected that Hamilton will be one of the highest-paid drivers in Formula 1.

Who will replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes?

Mercedes is currently considering their options and will take their time to find the best replacement. Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon are among the frontrunners.

Will Hamilton's partnership with Mercedes continue after he leaves?

Yes, Hamilton's partnerships and initiatives with Mercedes, particularly focused on increasing diversity within the sport, will continue even after his departure.

What is Mercedes' focus now?

Mercedes' priority now is to find a replacement for Hamilton and ensure they have the fastest car in F1.

Timestamped Summary

00:10Lewis Hamilton announced his move to Ferrari, exercising the break clause in his Mercedes contract.

00:16Tensions at the Mercedes headquarters remain low as business continues as usual.

01:03Hamilton's decision to leave Mercedes was not a surprise to Toto Wolf, who explained that Hamilton needed something fresh at this stage of his career.

01:31Hamilton's move to Ferrari offers him better financial terms, possibly making him the highest-paid driver in Formula 1.

06:04Mercedes' priority now is to find a replacement for Hamilton and ensure they have the fastest car in F1.