Lewis Hamilton has released a long statement on social media explaining his decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari at the end of the year.
The seven-time world champion has had a career-long partnership with Mercedes ever since making his F1 debut with McLaren back in 2007.
There was an expectation that Hamilton would see out the rest of his racing career with the Silver Arrows after he penned a new two-year deal with them at the end of last season.
But that contract included a release clause and it has been activated to allow him to sensationally join Ferrari in one of the biggest switches in F1 history.
Hamilton has been quiet on social media since the news broke but he's now spoken out for the first time with a long statement.
Lewis Hamilton has penned a long statement on social media
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"It’s been a crazy few days which have been filled with a whole range of emotions," he started.
"But as you all now know, after an incredible 11 years at Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, the time has come for me to start a new chapter in my life and I will be joining Scuderia Ferrari in 2025.
"I feel incredibly fortunate, after achieving things with Mercedes that I could only have dreamed of as a kid, that I now have the chance to fulfil another childhood dream. Driving in Ferrari red.
"Mercedes has been a huge part of my life since I was 13 years old, so this decision has been the hardest I’ve ever had to make.
"I’m incredibly proud of all that we’ve achieved together and I’m very grateful for the hard work and dedication of everyone I have worked with over the years and of course Toto, for his friendship, guidance and leadership.
"Together we have won titles, broken records and become the most successful Driver-Team partnership in F1 history. And of course I cannot forget Niki who was a huge supporter and who I still miss everyday.
"I must also share my huge appreciation to the whole of the Mercedes-Benz board and everyone at the company in Germany and around the world for supporting me over these 26 years.
"But the time is right to make a change and take on a new challenge. I still remember the feeling of taking a leap of faith into the unknown when I first joined Mercedes in 2013.
"I know some people didn’t understand it at the time but I was right to make the move then and it’s the feeling I have again now. I’m excited to see what I can bring to this new opportunity and what we can do together.
"However, right now, I’m not thinking about 2025. My focus is on the upcoming season and getting back out on track with Mercedes.
"I am more driven than ever, I am fitter and more focussed than ever and I want to help Mercedes win once again.
"I am 100 per cent committed to the job I need to do and determined to end my partnership with the team on a high.
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Lewis Hamilton will join Ferrari next year
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"Thank you to all of you who have been on this journey with me, you have all lifted me up as I chase my dreams and I hope I can continue to make you proud. As always, sending you my love and positive energy."
Hamilton has signed a multi-year contract with Ferrari, meaning he will be driving in F1 when the new regulations are introduced in 2026.
That will also see him racing in F1 at the age of 41 having previously saying he wouldn't follow in the footsteps of Kimi Raikkonen and drive into his 40s.
