Lewis Hamilton speaks out for the first time since officially becoming a Ferrari driver

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has broken his silence after officially becoming a Ferrari driver.

At the start of 2024, Hamilton announced the shock decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari, a move that stunned the sporting world.

After joining the Brackley-based team back in 2013, Hamilton went on to enjoy the most successful period of his illustrious career, winning the F1 world title six times and breaking records left, right and centre.

Looking ahead, Hamilton will partner Monegasque star Charles Leclerc.

On New Year's Day, Hamilton officially became a Ferrari driver, with the team writing on social media: "Perfect time for a follow

@LewisHamilton."

Hamilton has since broken his silence as he delivered an update on LinkedIn, stating his excitement for the year ahead.

Lewis Hamilton releases first statement as Ferrari driver

He wrote on Thursday: "I could not be more excited for the year ahead. Moving to Scuderia Ferrari, there’s a lot to reflect on. To anyone considering their next move in 2025: embrace the change. Whether you're switching industries, learning a new skill, or even just taking on new challenges, remember that reinvention is powerful.

"Your next opportunity is always within reach. Here’s to 2025—a year of embracing new opportunities, staying hungry, and driving forward with purpose. Let’s make it one to remember. Andiamo."

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will race for Ferrari in 2025. Image: Getty

Speaking previously about teaming up with Hamilton, Leclerc said: "When a champion like Lewis gets to any team, it brings a lot of motivation out of every single person.

"He will come along with all the experience that he's had over the years with Mercedes – a different way of working, a different vision – and this is always benefitting a team.” He went on to add: “Obviously, for me, it's going to be amazing because I’ll have in the same car as me the most successful driver in F1 history."

He continued: "That will be both extremely interesting for me to learn from one of the best ever, as well as a really big challenge and motivation to beat Lewis and to show what I'm capable of. With Lewis joining the team, he will definitely be a benchmark so it will be very important for me to be on my top level."

The 2025 F1 season will begin in March with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.