Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari was ‘announced by Charles Leclerc in September’ but nobody realised

Charles Leclerc may have hinted at Lewis Hamilton’s shock move from Mercedes to Ferrari last season.

Back in August 2023, it was announced that Hamilton had committed his future with Mercedes after signing a multi-year deal.

Many felt that the seven-time world champion would end his illustrious Formula 1 career with the Brackley-based team.

However, Hamilton’s future was thrown into chaos on Thursday morning after reports circulated that a move to Ferrari could happen in 2025.

By Thursday evening, it was confirmed that Hamilton will indeed leave Mercedes after the 2024 campaign.

On the back of the news, a video from last season in which Leclerc was asked about his future teammate has resurfaced.

A reporter said: "There's been a bit of speculation in the media recently with regards to your future partner at Ferrari, what do you look for in a teammate?"

The Monegasque replied: “Hello, Lewis! I mean, a fast teammate, as everybody. We are in Formula 1, and we love to be fighting against the best.

“But that’s not to say that my teammate is not fast. Carlos is an extremely fast driver. But yeah, considering that, I mean, I’m not the person who makes the choices. So yeah, let’s see.”

Leclerc continued: “If I say yes, I imagine it being the title of every newspaper.

“But I mean, Lewis is such an incredible driver, has achieved so much in the sport. So, I think anybody on the grid will love to have Lewis as a teammate, as everybody will learn a lot from him. But yeah, again, I’m happy where I am. And with Carlos, it’s a great relationship too.”

On Thursday, F1’s official social media account reposted the video with a caption that read: “Did these two know something we didn’t?”

Despite his exit announcement, Hamilton said he is fully committed to the season ahead.

He said: “I want to finish on a high together. I am 100% committed to delivering the best performance I can this season and making my last year with the Silver Arrows, one to remember.”