Lewis Hamilton issues first statement after decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton has issued a statement after deciding to leave Mercedes for Ferrari.

On Thursday (1 February) it was confirmed that Hamilton had signed a multi-year contract to join Ferrari from 2025.

Now, Hamilton has issued an official statement on the move, explaining the last few days had been filled with emotion.

The statement reads: "It’s been a crazy few days which have been filled with a whole range of emotions.

"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."

He continued: "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."

Hamilton said that the time was now right to take on something new.

"But the time is right to make a change and take on a new challenge," he continued.

"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."

Hamilton added that for now, he's focused on the upcoming season with Mercedes.

"However, right now, I’m not thinking about 2025. My focus is on the upcoming season and getting back out on track with Mercedes," he said.

"I am more driven than ever, I am fitter and more focussed than than ever and I want to help Mercedes win once again.

"I am 100% committed to the job I need to do and determined to end my partnership with the team on a high.

"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."

The star first signed with Mercedes all the way back in 2013, becoming one of the best-paid F1 drivers in history.