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Lewis Hamilton Reflects on Final Season with Mercedes as Ferrari Move Beckons in 2025

In the fast-paced world of Formula 1, few drivers have had the impact or longevity of Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion, who has spent over a decade with Mercedes, is now gearing up for what promises to be an emotional yet intensely competitive final season with the Silver Arrows in 2024. As he prepares for a new chapter with Ferrari in 2025, Hamilton is as motivated as ever to end his Mercedes career on a high note.

2024 marks Hamilton’s 12th and final season with Mercedes, the team with which he won six of his seven world championships between 2014 and 2020. Since joining Mercedes in 2013, Hamilton has been an integral part of their dominance, helping them achieve an unprecedented eight consecutive constructors’ championships from 2014 to 2021. However, the last two seasons have been less favorable for both the team and Hamilton, with the W13 and W14 cars proving to be difficult to handle and unable to match the consistency of their Red Bull rivals.

Despite these challenges, Hamilton remains optimistic about the 2024 season, stating that the struggles of the past two years have been valuable learning experiences for the team. Speaking at the launch of Mercedes’ new car, the W15, Hamilton expressed his confidence in the team’s efforts to rectify the issues that plagued their previous challengers. “The learnings of the past two years have helped us find our direction. It’s enabled us to find our north star,” Hamilton said. “It’s still going to be a work in progress, but we will face whatever challenges present themselves with our heads up, with open minds, and work through diligently.”

Hamilton also highlighted the importance of having a car that is both stable and predictable, allowing drivers to extract maximum performance. With the W15 car now revealed, there is hope that Mercedes can once again compete at the highest level. The Briton acknowledged the hard work of the entire team at Mercedes’ headquarters in Brackley and Brixworth, commending their sheer drive and determination.

For Hamilton, motivation is not in short supply. Despite nearing the age of 40 and having achieved nearly everything a Formula 1 driver could dream of, Hamilton remains as driven as ever. With one final opportunity to fight for an eighth world title with Mercedes, he is fully committed to making the most of it. “I know what this team is capable of,” Hamilton said. “I am incredibly grateful for the work of every single person in this team. Every time you’re in the factory, you can see the sheer drive and determination of everyone. We are all mega-motivated for the year ahead and will be giving it everything we’ve got on the journey ahead.”

Hamilton’s determination to succeed is underscored by the fact that this will be his final season with Mercedes. Having announced earlier this year that he will be joining Ferrari in 2025 on a multi-year deal, the Briton is eager to leave Mercedes on a high note. The prospect of racing for Ferrari, one of the most storied teams in Formula 1 history, has added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation for the future.

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Hamilton and Mercedes face a daunting challenge. Red Bull and Max Verstappen have been dominant in recent years, and McLaren and Ferrari have also made significant strides. However, with a renewed focus and an upgraded car, Mercedes and Hamilton are ready to take the fight to their rivals. Hamilton’s impending move to Ferrari has generated significant buzz within the F1 community. The Briton will be teaming up with Charles Leclerc, a partnership that is expected to be a formidable force on the grid. Ferrari, who have been gradually improving under the leadership of team principal Fred Vasseur, are hopeful that Hamilton’s experience and talent will help propel them back to championship contention.

As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Hamilton as he embarks on his final campaign with Mercedes. Whether he can add an eighth world title to his already impressive resume remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Hamilton’s legacy as one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history is already secure. With the W15 car now unveiled and testing underway, Hamilton’s focus is squarely on the task at hand. The journey ahead will not be easy, but for a driver of Hamilton’s caliber, challenges are merely opportunities to further cement his place among the sport’s legends. As he prepares to close the Mercedes chapter of his career, Hamilton’s unwavering determination and passion for the sport remain as strong as ever.