Lewis Hamilton has posted an emotional social media message on the back of the Italian Grand Prix.
Mercedes superstar and seven-time Formula 1 world champion Hamilton will be moving to Ferrari ahead of the 2025 season.
The news of Hamilton’s departure rocked the F1 world back in February when his move to the Italian team was confirmed.
Over the past two years, Hamilton’s results have been way below par after Mercedes struggled to adapt to the new regulations.
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However, the 2024 has provided a crumb of comfort after Hamilton won both the British Grand Prix and the Belgian Grand Prix in recent months.
During last weekend’s Italian Grand Prix in Monza, Hamilton came home in fifth place.
On Friday night, Hamilton took to social media to write an emotional message.
He wrote: “Leaving Monza, it hit me that it was the last European race this year. The last time I'll be in my room in engineering that's been my home for 12 years.
“This is such a unique time in my life, one that continues to bring out a lot of emotions.”
Hamilton continued: “What I feel the most is pride and gratitude. The memories will last forever, as will the memories I make next year.”
Prior to the Grand Prix, it was confirmed that 18-year-old rising star Kimi Antonelli will replace Hamilton at Mercedes next season.
Hamilton said: “I mean, I’ve known for ages so… But definitely this morning, I knew it would be announced this morning, and I definitely woke up and it was very surreal.
“Just to have it officially confirmed my seat is going and that I’ve held on for it for so long.”
He added: “I was quite emotional this morning. But really happy for Kimi and for this team. I know Kimi is going to do a great job.
“He’s a great kid and he’s got a good family around him and a good head on his shoulders. Very talented. He’s going to do great, I’m very excited for him.”
F1 will return with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix next weekend, which will take place at the Baku City Circuit on September 15.
Topics: Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1, Mercedes, Ferrari
Marcus Chan