Mercedes’ Head of Communications, Bradley Lord, shed light on the reason behind Lewis Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari. Lord expressed his views on Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes, stating that the British driver has completed the first half of the 2024 season and only has one more season left before leaving the team. Hamilton, who has won six world championship titles with Mercedes and led them to eight consecutive constructors titles, will continue to give his all in his final season with the team this year.
During an interview, Bradley Lord revealed that Lewis Hamilton had informed him and others that he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to drive for Ferrari. Lord explained that Hamilton didn’t want to look back in thirty years and regret not having driven for the prestigious team. Ferrari is a team with a rich legacy, and every driver aspires to be in their cockpit. Hamilton wanted to avoid any “what if” moments in his future, so when the chance to drive for Ferrari came along, he didn’t hesitate. This ensured that he wouldn’t miss out on his dream and avoid future regrets.
Bradley Lord acknowledged that when they learned about Hamilton’s departure, it was a complex and unexpected situation for them. He stated that the team understands and respects his decision to leave. Hamilton’s departure posed a challenge for the team as he had been with them for over a decade and had formed an unbreakable bond.
Lord explained that at Mercedes, they understood that if Hamilton were to achieve his dream of winning his eighth championship with Ferrari, it would be a great final touch to his career, like icing on the cake. However, he emphasized that the majority of Hamilton’s success would always be attributed to his time with Mercedes. The team recognized that while his potential success with Ferrari would be notable, the foundation of his achievements, including record-setting victories and titles, would always be with Mercedes.
Highlighting Hamilton’s legacy, Bradley Lord emphasized that in the next 10 to 15 years, he would remain the most successful driver at Mercedes. Lord mentioned that no matter how much time passes, Hamilton’s achievements and impact on Mercedes will remain unmatched. His success is so significant that it will be remembered for many years to come. Lord stated that Hamilton’s legacy as the most successful driver in Mercedes’ history will continue to be recognized, and the company will celebrate his success for a long time.
Certainly, Lord admitted that it would be challenging for any future driver to match Hamilton’s accomplishments at Mercedes in the coming years. He emphasized that Lewis Hamilton would remain their top driver for at least the next 10-15 years. Bradley Lord acknowledged that achieving what the seven-time world champion has done in these years is next to impossible.
