In a move that sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in 2025, ending his legendary partnership with Mercedes. The bombshell transfer, revealed earlier this year, continues to dominate F1 conversations as new details emerge about the secret negotiations that made it happen.
The Vasseur Connection
At the heart of Hamilton's surprise switch is Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, whose longstanding relationship with the British racing icon proved decisive. Sources reveal that Vasseur, who previously worked with Hamilton in junior formulae, initiated discreet talks as early as 2022.
"Fred was the key," an insider disclosed. "Their history created trust that made this unthinkable move possible."
Contract Breakthrough
The deal reportedly includes:
- A multi-year contract worth £40m+ annually
- Technical input on Ferrari's 2026 regulation changes
- Brand ambassador role extending beyond racing
Hamilton's Mercedes exit clause, negotiated during his last contract renewal, allowed the late approach from Maranello to proceed without obstruction.
What This Means for F1
The transfer creates seismic shifts in the F1 landscape:
- Mercedes must now rebuild around George Russell
- Ferrari gains the sport's most marketable star
- 2025 driver market dominoes begin to fall
As preseason testing approaches, all eyes remain on how Hamilton will adapt to scarlet red after 11 years in silver.
