Since joining the team in 2014, Hamilton has won six world championships, a feat unmatched by any other driver with a single team.
Mercedes Team Principal, Toto Wolff, revealed his conversation with Lewis Hamilton after learning of the latter’s unexpected choice to leave Mercedes for Ferrari in the upcoming 2024 season. In an interview with Fox Sports Australia, Wolff shared the moment when Hamilton broke the news, making him question the timing of the announcement, especially considering Hamilton’s great success with Mercedes.
Hamilton’s departure comes at a challenging time for Mercedes, as they have struggled to maintain their dominance following the regulatory changes in 2022. They have fallen behind in the constructors’ standings and have faced difficulties competing against teams like Red Bull and Ferrari. The disappointing start to the 2024 season, marked by a double DNF at the Australian Grand Prix, adds turbulence to Mercedes.
Wolff was not completely caught off guard by Hamilton’s decision, as his contract included an optional second year. However, the timing of the announcement still surprised him. Hamilton expressed his desire to avoid the “emotional burden” of hiding his move throughout the season, leading to an honest conversation over coffee, where he confirmed his decision to join Ferrari.
The initial shock of Wolff quickly turned into practical considerations for the team’s future and possible replacements for Hamilton. The team now faces the challenge of reshaping its lineup, with George Russell, who has shown promise with a win at the Brazilian Grand Prix, potentially taking on the role of team leader. Speculations also surround the possibility of new additions, such as Mercedes junior driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and other high-profile drivers like Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz, who are expected to leave their seat at Ferrari. The team composition in the future is a highly anticipated topic, as several driver contracts expire in 2025 and the paddock eagerly awaits Wolff’s decisions.
