In a shocking turn of events, Lewis Hamilton signed a multi-year deal with Ferrari after a decade-long stint with Mercedes. The Briton joined hands with the Silver Arrows in 2013 and smashed every F1 record, winning six Drivers Championships. He last claimed a world title in 2020, coming heartbreakingly close to his eighth title in 2021. Since the heartache of 2021’s penultimate race, the Silver Arrows have struggled to regain momentum. The downhill battle has strained Hamilton’s relationship with the technical team. He criticized the team’s approach in 2022 and 23, igniting an internal tussle.
Subsequently, Mercedes’ lack of competitiveness pushed Hamilton away, as he is set to join Ferrari from 2025 onward. Amid the lackluster performances, the Briton aimed to celebrate his remarkable years with the team, hoping to depart on a high note. While the German Mareque witnessed a slight revival before the summer break, it took a nosedive afterward. The seven-time world champion reached a frustrating threshold at the Brazilian GP, where the W15 displayed unusual bouncing behavior. With only three rounds and no more upgrade packages, Hamilton expressed his desire to take a holiday. However, he has hinted at his participation in the remainder of the 2024 season.
Lewis Hamilton Teases Participation In The Final Three Rounds Of 2024
The rumors of an early exit swirled around the paddock after Hamilton expressed his frustration. In the light of a dismal Brazilian GP, the 39-year-old racer appeared exhausted, hinting towards a break from F1. However, SKY F1 reporter Craig Slater claims Hamilton will complete his Mercedes stint before moving to Ferrari in 2025. This implied the Mercedes starlet will drive the W15 in the final three rounds of 2024.
Sadly, the second round of 2024 has been a strenuous journey. Hamilton pumped all the gas, but the W15 remains lackluster. The situation grew dire in Sao Paulo as the Briton failed to reach Q3 in both Sprint and Saturday qualifying. He finished P10 on Sunday, 27 seconds apart from his teammate George Russell.
The seven-time world champion didn’t hold back after the race, referring to W15 as the ‘worst car’ in ages. Talking to the media, Hamilton stated it was a shame if this was his final race with Mercedes, hinting towards an early exit. The suspense intensified when he said, “Looking forward to Christmas,” hinting that he might have already written off the current season. However, the speculation was soon put to rest as Hamilton urged for a less bouncy car, hoping it would have more stability and control on the upcoming tracks, which offer less traction.
F1 Journalist Dismisses Lewis Hamilton’s Early Exit Rumors As “Far-Fetched”
Craig Slater quashed all the rumors around Hamilton’s participation in the last three races of the current season. “It is far-fetched, and it isn’t correct. He will be finishing the season with Mercedes,” said Slater. Further, the F1 journalist confirmed that these are all made-up stories, and Kimi Antonelli will not replace Hamilton before the Las Vegas race.
Moreover, Slater was confused about Hamilton’s radio message, which clearly suggested an early exit. However, the Sky Journalist is in touch with Mercedes senior officials, and they are clear that Hamilton will complete his season.
