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In a surprising turn of events, Lewis Hamilton is set to embark on a new chapter in his racing career by joining Ferrari in 2025. According to reliable sources, the seven-time Formula One world champion has reached an agreement with the Scuderia, with an official announcement anticipated this Thursday evening.
Contrary to previous declarations where the 39-year-old expressed his commitment to staying with the current team, Mercedes, and contemplating an ambassadorial role post-retirement, recent developments have unveiled advanced negotiations between Hamilton and Ferrari. Reports from Italy prompted a sudden meeting organized by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff and technical director James Allison with staff members at 2 pm on Thursday.
Hamilton has engaged in discussions with Ferrari’s CEO, John Elkann, whose keen interest in bringing the British driver to the Scuderia is evident. While previous speculations about a potential move to Ferrari proved baseless, the current reports indicate substantial talks and the likelihood of confirmation as early as Thursday afternoon.
As of now, Mercedes, Ferrari, and Hamilton’s representatives have refrained from commenting on the emerging reports. Hamilton inked a contract extension with Mercedes in August of the preceding year, securing his association with the team until 2024 and 2025. However, indications suggest that he might have had an option to explore other opportunities, including teaming up with Charles Leclerc at Ferrari for the 2025 season.
Hamilton’s tenure with Mercedes, commencing in 2013, saw him clinch six out of his seven world championships. Nevertheless, since 2022, Mercedes has faced challenges, lagging behind the dominant Red Bull and hindering Hamilton’s pursuit of another title. Despite expressing disappointment and frustration over the team’s performance, Hamilton remained optimistic about their resurgence, with an entirely new car design slated for the upcoming season.
While a move to Ferrari holds the promise of a fresh start, success is not guaranteed. Ferrari itself grappled with challenges under new regulations, securing a third-place finish in the constructors’ championship last year, trailing Red Bull and Mercedes. The team’s last drivers’ title dates back to Kimi Raikkonen in 2007, and their last constructors’ championship victory occurred in 2008.
