Lewis Hamilton has confirmed he will be leaving Mercedes for Ferrari at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season and has provided further insight into his decision in his new book Inside Mercedes F1.
Despite the move, Hamilton emphasizes that he remains deeply committed to Mercedes and has not “lost faith” in the team.
In his conversation with author Matt Whyman, the seven-time world champion reflects on his choice to part ways with the team that helped him secure six of his seven titles.
“It’s like ending a relationship that’s still good,” he explains. “We’re still in love, but I’m leaving for myself.
It’s been a childhood dream to drive the red car—something every motorsport fan probably dreams about.”
Hamilton reveals that with only a few years left in his career, he began to question whether he would regret not taking the chance to experience something new. “I really thought about it over the winter,” he shares.
“Leaving is a big risk, but I love taking risks. I just couldn’t shake the feeling that I had to try.”
He describes the conversation with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff as the hardest meeting he’s ever had, and breaking the news to his close colleagues, like race engineer Peter ‘Bono’ Bonnington, was equally difficult.
Hamilton recounts how he finally told them while they were getting ready for their annual paintballing event at the start of the 2024 season.
Initially unsure how to say it, he was relieved by their supportive and understanding reaction.
Hamilton concludes, “I’m fully committed to this season, but I know it will hit me hard when I realize I won’t be seeing my teammates or visiting the factory anymore.”
