In a seismic shift that has left Formula 1 fans buzzing, Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, has officially bid farewell to Mercedes to pursue his childhood dream of driving for Ferrari. As the iconic Brit prepares to don the Scuderia’s legendary red overalls in 2025, Mercedes’ Chief Communications Officer Bradley Lord reveals he wasn’t entirely surprised—but he did think Hamilton’s future might lead him back to McLaren instead.
Hamilton’s Exit: The End of an Era
After 12 seasons of dominance and drama with Mercedes, Hamilton said his emotional goodbyes to the Brackley-based squad in December. The partnership, which began in 2013, brought unparalleled success, including six world titles. But Hamilton’s decision to leave the Silver Arrows marks the end of one of F1’s most iconic eras.
Speaking on the Beyond The Grid podcast, Lord reflected on Hamilton’s move:
“Not at all, because I think that’s been his plan all along. A few years ago, it came up in conversation,” Lord revealed, adding that Hamilton had long harbored a desire to race for Ferrari, the most storied team in Formula 1 history.
From McLaren to Ferrari: A Career of Bold Choices
While many were shocked by Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari, Lord admitted he initially believed Hamilton might return to McLaren, the team where he won his first championship in 2008.
“I always thought he might be tempted back to McLaren, but I was completely wrong,” Lord confessed. “But yeah, we had a conversation years ago, and he always said that most drivers have a desire to, at some point in their career, drive the Ferrari.”
Hamilton now follows in the footsteps of greats like Sebastian Vettel and Fernando Alonso, who also pursued the dream of racing for the Prancing Horse. Vettel famously left Red Bull in 2015 to join Ferrari, capturing 14 wins during his time with the team and echoing a sentiment that resonates deeply across F1:
“Everyone is a Ferrari fan – even if they say they’re not, they are Ferrari fans.”
The Ferrari Dream: A Driver’s Ultimate Ambition
For Hamilton, Ferrari represents not just a team but an enduring legacy. With its rich history, iconic cars, and devoted Tifosi fans, the Scuderia is the most recognizable name in Formula 1.
“I think it’s inevitable that great drivers want to go there,” Lord explained. “The history and esteem of Ferrari make it irresistible.”
Hamilton himself has a deep connection with Italy, sharing the record for most victories at the Italian Grand Prix—five wins alongside Ferrari legend Michael Schumacher. The question now is whether Hamilton can claim a sixth victory at Monza in Ferrari red, sending the passionate Tifosi into a frenzy.
What’s Next for Hamilton and Ferrari?
The move to Ferrari is a gamble. The Scuderia has struggled to reclaim its championship-winning form in recent years, but Hamilton’s arrival could spark a resurgence. With his immense experience and relentless drive, Hamilton aims to bring Ferrari back to the top of the podium and solidify his place in F1 history as a champion with three different teams.
The 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most electrifying in recent memory. Can Hamilton fulfill his childhood dream and deliver Ferrari’s first drivers’ championship since Kimi Räikkönen’s triumph in 2007? One thing is certain: all eyes will be on the Prancing Horse.