Formula One still has a way to go on inclusivity despite the sport's positive reaction to Ralf Schumacher's announcement that he is in a single-sex relationship, Lewis Hamilton said on Thursday. Retired racer Schumacher, the younger brother of Ferrari great Michael and winner of six grands prix in a 180-race career between 1997 and 2007, revealed his status on social media at the weekend.

The number of openly non-heterosexual drivers in the 74-year history of male-dominated Formula One can be counted on the fingers of one hand and Ralf, 49, is by far the most prominent and successful. A pundit for Sky television in Germany, the former Jordan, Williams and Toyota driver is a familiar face in the paddock. Divorced, he has a 22-year-old son David who competes in sportscar racing.

"Clearly he has not felt comfortable being able to say it in the past. It is definitely not a new thing," Mercedes' seven times world champion Hamilton told reporters at the Hungarian Grand Prix. "I think it just shows that we are in a time where finally you can take that step and don’t have to fear. "So far I’ve heard only positive feedback from people (in F1) and I think that’s because of the times we live in and the changes."

Ralf's sexuality was sometimes alluded to by paddock insiders during his time as a grand prix racer but more often ignored and his privacy respected.

McLaren's Lando Norris said it was good to be open. "Whether it's this or talking about mental health, you just want people to live their life and be happy and not feel like they are going to get judged, so I'm very happy for him," said the Briton.

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<h2>STRONG STANCE</h2>

Hamilton has taken a strong stance on LGBTQ+ issues over the years and has worn a Progress Pride helmet in countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In 2021 he spoke out in Hungary against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation while four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel showed support by wearing trainers with a rainbow design.

"I think it all started from Seb and I standing on the grid here (in Hungary), fighting against what the government is doing here, and when I was wearing a helmet in Saudi and Qatar," Hamilton said on Thursday of the changing attitudes.

"Ralf said (then that) it wasn’t a good idea to do those things and perhaps today he dared shift his mind and even him taking that step sends such a positive message," added the Briton.

Hamilton said the sport, which has not had a female race driver since 1976, should do more to be truly welcoming. He suggested an anonymous questionnaire for all involved.

"It is one thing saying that it’s inclusive and it’s another thing actually making sure people feel comfortable in the environment," he said.

"We are very inclusive within our team but I think the sport does need to continue to do more to make people feel more comfortable and make women feel more welcome in this space because I know they have not always been treated well."

A Formula One spokesman said Ralf's announcement was "a very positive thing" and showed F1 had taken big steps forward in inclusivity and diversity.

"We want to keep pushing to ensure everyone feels accepted and welcomed for who they are but we should all be proud of the progress we are making," he added.

Formula One still has a way to go on inclusivity despite the sport's positive reaction to Ralf Schumacher's announcement that he is in a single-sex relationship, Lewis Hamilton said on Thursday.

Formula One still has a way to go on inclusivity despite the sport's positive reaction to Ralf Schumacher's announcement that he is in a single-sex relationship, Lewis Hamilton said on Thursday. Retired racer Schumacher, the younger brother of Ferrari great Michael and winner of six grands prix in a 180-race career between 1997 and 2007, revealed his status on social media at the weekend. The number of openly non-heterosexual drivers in the 74-year history of male-dominated Formula One can be counted on the fingers of one hand and Ralf, 49, is by far the most prominent and successful. A pundit for Sky television in Germany, the former Jordan, Williams and Toyota driver is a familiar face in the paddock. Divorced, he has a 22-year-old son David who competes in sportscar racing. "Clearly he has not felt comfortable being able to say it in the past. It is definitely not a new thing," Mercedes' seven times world champion Hamilton told reporters at the Hungarian Grand Prix. "I think it just shows that we are in a time where finally you can take that step and don’t have to fear. "So far I’ve heard only positive feedback from people (in F1) and I think that’s because of the times we live in and the changes." Ralf's sexuality was sometimes alluded to by paddock insiders during his time as a grand prix racer but more often ignored and his privacy respected. McLaren's Lando Norris said it was good to be open. "Whether it's this or talking about mental health, you just want people to live their life and be happy and not feel like they are going to get judged, so I'm very happy for him," said the Briton. Also read: Manchester United sign French teen Leny Yoro on a five-year contract ahead of Premier League 2024-25 STRONG STANCE Hamilton has taken a strong stance on LGBTQ+ issues over the years and has worn a Progress Pride helmet in countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In 2021 he spoke out in Hungary against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation while four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel showed support by wearing trainers with a rainbow design. "I think it all started from Seb and I standing on the grid here (in Hungary), fighting against what the government is doing here, and when I was wearing a helmet in Saudi and Qatar," Hamilton said on Thursday of the changing attitudes. "Ralf said (then that) it wasn’t a good idea to do those things and perhaps today he dared shift his mind and even him taking that step sends such a positive message," added the Briton. Hamilton said the sport, which has not had a female race driver since 1976, should do more to be truly welcoming. He suggested an anonymous questionnaire for all involved. "It is one thing saying that it’s inclusive and it’s another thing actually making sure people feel comfortable in the environment," he said. "We are very inclusive within our team but I think the sport does need to continue to do more to make people feel more comfortable and make women feel more welcome in this space because I know they have not always been treated well." A Formula One spokesman said Ralf's announcement was "a very positive thing" and showed F1 had taken big steps forward in inclusivity and diversity. "We want to keep pushing to ensure everyone feels accepted and welcomed for who they are but we should all be proud of the progress we are making," he added.

Ralf Schumacher coming out is good for F1 but more to do, opines Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton claimed an emotional and long-awaited record 104th&nbsp;career victory on Sunday when he resisted Max Verstappen to triumph in vintage fashion at the British Grand Prix for a record ninth time.&nbsp;

The seven-time champion, who will turn 40 in January, cracked with emotion and was in tears as he spoke on Mercedes team radio on his victory lap, having finished 1.465 seconds ahead of Red Bull's series leader and three-time champion.&nbsp;

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In a roller-coaster race of changing weather and track conditions, Lando Norris came home third ahead of his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri, Carlos Sainz of Ferrari and Haas' Nico Hulkenberg with Lance Stroll finishing seventh for Aston Martin.&nbsp;

Hamilton, who had not won since the 2021 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, delivered a masterclass in tyre and race management to secure his 150th&nbsp;podium finish for Mercedes.&nbsp;

"I've been waiting for this," shouted Briton Hamilton after crossing the line in his Mercedes to claim a ninth victory at Silverstone, breaking a tie with Michael Schumacher for most wins at one track.

"I can't stop crying," said Hamilton. "I think, since 2021, every day getting up, trying to fight, and to train, and to put my mind to the task and work as hard as I can with this amazing team."

Hamilton is leaving Mercedes for Ferrari after this season.

"This is my last British GP with this team. I wanted to win so much for them. I love them so much. All the hard work they've been putting in."

Verstappen overtook Norris in the closing laps.

"We just didn't have the pace today," said Verstappen. "I was slowly dropping back when it mattered at the beginning. It really wasn't looking great at one point, but we made the right calls."

Norris had lost the lead after a misjudged pit stop.

"First of all, congrats to Lewis," Norris said. "That crucial decision at the end, he just did a better job, so hats off to him and Mercedes, they deserve it. It was tough. It was fun battling these guys and these tricky conditions, risking a lot, on a knife-edge."

Two-time champion Fernando Alonso was eighth in the second Aston Martin, ahead of Williams' Alex Albon and Yuki Tsunoda of RB.&nbsp;

On a day of clouds and intermittent sunshine in central England a crowd of more than 120,000 witnessed three Britons starting their home race at the front of the grid for the first time since 1962.

George Russell started on pole and made a clean start with Hamilton moving in tight behind him to provide protection from Verstappen who had quickly passed Norris. &nbsp;

Russell settled and by lap six led by 1.6 seconds with Hamilton 1.4 seconds ahead of Verstappen and the two McLarens. &nbsp;

By lap 14, rain began to sweep across the old wartime airfield as Norris passed Verstappen to regain third. As the rain intensified, the McLarens came alive and Piastri passed Verstappen on lap 17.

<h2>- 'The sun's coming out' -</h2>

Hamilton then overtook Russell for the lead as both Mercedes slithered in the rain. Norris, revelling in the conditions, passed Russell for second on lap 19 and then powered past Hamilton while Piastri made it a McLaren 1-2,&nbsp;on lap 21.&nbsp;

As the first shower relented, Verstappen was five seconds adrift in fifth.

By lap 28, Norris led Hamilton who was trying to preserve his tyres while hanging on to the rapid McLaren.&nbsp;

Russell's race ended on lap 34 when he was called in to pit and retire the car with a hydraulic problem.

With 15 to go, Hamilton reported that "the sun's coming out" before on lap 39 he, Verstappen and Piastri pitted together. Norris pitted a lap later losing the lead to Hamilton who measured his final stint to perfection, ending 56 winless races to a tumultuous home reception.

Hamilton wept as he fell into the arms of his father as the home crowd roared.

Lewis Hamilton claimed an emotional and long-awaited record 104th career victory on Sunday when he resisted Max Verstappen to triumph in vintage fashion at the British Grand Prix for a record ninth time.

Lewis Hamilton claimed an emotional and long-awaited record 104th career victory on Sunday when he resisted Max Verstappen to triumph in vintage fashion at the British Grand Prix for a record ninth time. The seven-time champion, who will turn 40 in January, cracked with emotion and was in tears as he spoke on Mercedes team radio on his victory lap, having finished 1.465 seconds ahead of Red Bull's series leader and three-time champion. Also Read: Khyree Jackson, Minnesota Vikings' 2024 NFL Draft pick, dies in car crash In a roller-coaster race of changing weather and track conditions, Lando Norris came home third ahead of his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri, Carlos Sainz of Ferrari and Haas' Nico Hulkenberg with Lance Stroll finishing seventh for Aston Martin. Hamilton, who had not won since the 2021 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, delivered a masterclass in tyre and race management to secure his 150th podium finish for Mercedes. "I've been waiting for this," shouted Briton Hamilton after crossing the line in his Mercedes to claim a ninth victory at Silverstone, breaking a tie with Michael Schumacher for most wins at one track. "I can't stop crying," said Hamilton. "I think, since 2021, every day getting up, trying to fight, and to train, and to put my mind to the task and work as hard as I can with this amazing team." Hamilton is leaving Mercedes for Ferrari after this season. "This is my last British GP with this team. I wanted to win so much for them. I love them so much. All the hard work they've been putting in." Verstappen overtook Norris in the closing laps. "We just didn't have the pace today," said Verstappen. "I was slowly dropping back when it mattered at the beginning. It really wasn't looking great at one point, but we made the right calls." Norris had lost the lead after a misjudged pit stop. "First of all, congrats to Lewis," Norris said. "That crucial decision at the end, he just did a better job, so hats off to him and Mercedes, they deserve it. It was tough. It was fun battling these guys and these tricky conditions, risking a lot, on a knife-edge." Two-time champion Fernando Alonso was eighth in the second Aston Martin, ahead of Williams' Alex Albon and Yuki Tsunoda of RB. On a day of clouds and intermittent sunshine in central England a crowd of more than 120,000 witnessed three Britons starting their home race at the front of the grid for the first time since 1962. George Russell started on pole and made a clean start with Hamilton moving in tight behind him to provide protection from Verstappen who had quickly passed Norris. Russell settled and by lap six led by 1.6 seconds with Hamilton 1.4 seconds ahead of Verstappen and the two McLarens. By lap 14, rain began to sweep across the old wartime airfield as Norris passed Verstappen to regain third. As the rain intensified, the McLarens came alive and Piastri passed Verstappen on lap 17. - 'The sun's coming out' - Hamilton then overtook Russell for the lead as both Mercedes slithered in the rain. Norris, revelling in the conditions, passed Russell for second on lap 19 and then powered past Hamilton while Piastri made it a McLaren 1-2, on lap 21. As the first shower relented, Verstappen was five seconds adrift in fifth. By lap 28, Norris led Hamilton who was trying to preserve his tyres while hanging on to the rapid McLaren. Russell's race ended on lap 34 when he was called in to pit and retire the car with a hydraulic problem. With 15 to go, Hamilton reported that "the sun's coming out" before on lap 39 he, Verstappen and Piastri pitted together. Norris pitted a lap later losing the lead to Hamilton who measured his final stint to perfection, ending 56 winless races to a tumultuous home reception. Hamilton wept as he fell into the arms of his father as the home crowd roared.

British Grand Prix: Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton holds off Max Verstappen for first win in three years

George Russell beat Lewis Hamilton to secure pole as their Mercedes team reeled off a front row lockout in Saturday's tense qualifying session for Sunday's British Grand Prix.&nbsp;

The two Britons were given a wild ovation by the crowd who saw a third Briton Lando Norris of McLaren take third to deliver the first one-two-three by British drivers at their home race.&nbsp;

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It was the first British triple top in qualifying at any race since the 1968 South African Grand Prix.&nbsp;

Russell grabbed pole in one minute and 25.819 seconds to beat seven-time champion Hamilton by 0.171 seconds in the final minute as the track improved, the trio leaving series leader and three-time champion Max Verstappen to qualify fourth in his slightly damaged Red Bull.&nbsp;

Oscar Piastri was fifth in the second McLaren ahead of Nico Hulkenberg of Haas, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, Lance Stroll of Aston Martin, Alex Albon of Williams and two-time champion Fernando Alonso in the second Aston Martin.&nbsp;

Norris admitted that he had made a mistake on his final lap, which led to him aborting it, while Hamilton said it was a "huge" reward for the team for their work to recover competitive form and congratulated Russell.&nbsp;

Russell said that it was down to the Silverstone fans who had braved miserable weather to see a British triumph.&nbsp;

"What a crowd and what energy!" he said over the team radio.

Later the winner in Austria last time out added: "What a feeling, at the start of this year I don't think we could of even dreamt of being on pole here, one-two for me and Lewis, and Lando it's just mega.

<h2>Luckless Perez</h2>

After a morning of blustery winds and heavy intermittent rain, not to mention a lively rumour mill, the session began in watery sunshine.

The luckless Sergio Perez, on softs, spun off into the gravel at Copse and out of the session in his Red Bull.&nbsp;

His future with the team was the subject of much speculation beforehand and this intensified with this latest misfortune. It was his third Q1 exit of the season after similar in Monaco and Canada.&nbsp;

Perez had contributed only 15 points for Red Bull from the last five races – they totalled 116 thanks to Verstappen – and this prompted McLaren boss Zak Brown to suggest his fallibility was enabling McLaren to bid for the teams’ title.

The Q1 session was red-flagged for nine minutes before the action resumed with Sauber’s Valtteri Bottas going top by five seconds before others on slicks clocked improved ‘slick’ times as rain approached.&nbsp;

In the midst of this, Verstappen went off at Copse, but recovered, falling to an endangered 15th&nbsp;before responding in a frantic finale which saw Bottas, Kevin Magnussen of Haas, Alpine's Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly eliminated along with Perez.

The Williams cars led the way into Q2, Logan Sargeant under pressure to keep his seat, with all on slicks. On his first run, Verstappen, carrying damage, was only seventh as Norris and then Alonso set the pace ahead of Sainz and Hamilton.

In drying conditions, Sainz, Piastri Hulkenberg, Russell and Norris went top as everyone improved, Verstappen falling to 11th&nbsp;from where he rescued himself to go sixth.&nbsp;

A late surge by Stroll saw Leclerc drop to 11th&nbsp;and miss Q3 along with Sargeant, RB’s Yuki Tsunoda, Zhou Guanyu of Sauber and Daniel Ricciardo in the second RB.&nbsp;

Albon, Verstappen and Piastri were first out for Q3, as the sun struggled to shine, but it was the British trio again, Russell, Norris and Hamilton who topped the first flying runs ahead of Piastri and Verstappen.&nbsp;

Russell led by 0.006 seconds, a blink, as they returned on fresh rubber for the final laps when after Norris pulled out to pit and Russell went top in a Mercedes one-two, with Norris third and Verstappen fourth.&nbsp;

It was the first time three British drivers had taken the top three places in qualifying at their home event and for Russell the second pole of the season, having done the same a week earlier in Austria.

George Russell beat Lewis Hamilton to secure pole as their Mercedes team reeled off a front row lockout in Saturday's tense qualifying session for Sunday's British Grand Prix.

George Russell beat Lewis Hamilton to secure pole as their Mercedes team reeled off a front row lockout in Saturday's tense qualifying session for Sunday's British Grand Prix. The two Britons were given a wild ovation by the crowd who saw a third Briton Lando Norris of McLaren take third to deliver the first one-two-three by British drivers at their home race. Also Read: 'I’m misunderstood,' says boxer Ryan Garcia after suspension from WBC for using racial slurs It was the first British triple top in qualifying at any race since the 1968 South African Grand Prix. Russell grabbed pole in one minute and 25.819 seconds to beat seven-time champion Hamilton by 0.171 seconds in the final minute as the track improved, the trio leaving series leader and three-time champion Max Verstappen to qualify fourth in his slightly damaged Red Bull. Oscar Piastri was fifth in the second McLaren ahead of Nico Hulkenberg of Haas, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, Lance Stroll of Aston Martin, Alex Albon of Williams and two-time champion Fernando Alonso in the second Aston Martin. Norris admitted that he had made a mistake on his final lap, which led to him aborting it, while Hamilton said it was a "huge" reward for the team for their work to recover competitive form and congratulated Russell. Russell said that it was down to the Silverstone fans who had braved miserable weather to see a British triumph. "What a crowd and what energy!" he said over the team radio. Later the winner in Austria last time out added: "What a feeling, at the start of this year I don't think we could of even dreamt of being on pole here, one-two for me and Lewis, and Lando it's just mega. Luckless Perez After a morning of blustery winds and heavy intermittent rain, not to mention a lively rumour mill, the session began in watery sunshine. The luckless Sergio Perez, on softs, spun off into the gravel at Copse and out of the session in his Red Bull. His future with the team was the subject of much speculation beforehand and this intensified with this latest misfortune. It was his third Q1 exit of the season after similar in Monaco and Canada. Perez had contributed only 15 points for Red Bull from the last five races – they totalled 116 thanks to Verstappen – and this prompted McLaren boss Zak Brown to suggest his fallibility was enabling McLaren to bid for the teams’ title. The Q1 session was red-flagged for nine minutes before the action resumed with Sauber’s Valtteri Bottas going top by five seconds before others on slicks clocked improved ‘slick’ times as rain approached. In the midst of this, Verstappen went off at Copse, but recovered, falling to an endangered 15th before responding in a frantic finale which saw Bottas, Kevin Magnussen of Haas, Alpine's Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly eliminated along with Perez. The Williams cars led the way into Q2, Logan Sargeant under pressure to keep his seat, with all on slicks. On his first run, Verstappen, carrying damage, was only seventh as Norris and then Alonso set the pace ahead of Sainz and Hamilton. In drying conditions, Sainz, Piastri Hulkenberg, Russell and Norris went top as everyone improved, Verstappen falling to 11th from where he rescued himself to go sixth. A late surge by Stroll saw Leclerc drop to 11th and miss Q3 along with Sargeant, RB’s Yuki Tsunoda, Zhou Guanyu of Sauber and Daniel Ricciardo in the second RB. Albon, Verstappen and Piastri were first out for Q3, as the sun struggled to shine, but it was the British trio again, Russell, Norris and Hamilton who topped the first flying runs ahead of Piastri and Verstappen. Russell led by 0.006 seconds, a blink, as they returned on fresh rubber for the final laps when after Norris pulled out to pit and Russell went top in a Mercedes one-two, with Norris third and Verstappen fourth. It was the first time three British drivers had taken the top three places in qualifying at their home event and for Russell the second pole of the season, having done the same a week earlier in Austria.

British Grand Prix: Mercedes lock one-two but George Russell pips Lewis Hamilton for pole

Lewis Hamilton has hinted 'anything's possible' over rumours that link the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion and keen motorcycle rider with the purchase of Italy's Gresini MotoGP team.

Speculation that he could be close to moving to MotoGP has spiked after reports Formula One and MotoGP are set to come under common ownership, as US-based Liberty Media, which owns the commercial rights to F1, announced a takeover of MotoGP's parent company, Dorna, last April.

Reports in Italian and British media indicate that Hamilton is mulling an investment in the sport. He took part in a sponsor-organized swap of machines with MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi in 2019.

"I've always loved MotoGP. I'm interested in the potential growth of the sport, but I haven't looked that far into it just yet," Hamilton said at the British Grand Prix when asked specifically if he was interested in buying Gresini.

"But anything's possible. I'm definitely interested in, as I said before, about equity and already with the (Denver) Broncos, it was already a first step in team ownership.

"And so, yeah, I think over the next five to 10 years, there'll be hopefully more. We'll see where."

In August 2022, Hamilton further immersed himself in sports teams ownership, with the National Football League's Denver Broncos.&nbsp;

Also in 2022 he was involved in a failed bid for Premier League side Chelsea.

Hamilton's possible investment in Gresini MotoGP would become the tip of his bigger agenda of sports representation and diversity. Racing world observers now eagerly await developments on this count, as speculation runs rife about whether or not Hamilton will take up ownership of the MotoGP team.

Lewis Hamilton has hinted 'anything's possible' over rumours that link the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion and keen motorcycle rider with the purchase of Italy's Gresini MotoGP team.

Lewis Hamilton has hinted 'anything's possible' over rumours that link the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion and keen motorcycle rider with the purchase of Italy's Gresini MotoGP team. Speculation that he could be close to moving to MotoGP has spiked after reports Formula One and MotoGP are set to come under common ownership, as US-based Liberty Media, which owns the commercial rights to F1, announced a takeover of MotoGP's parent company, Dorna, last April. Reports in Italian and British media indicate that Hamilton is mulling an investment in the sport. He took part in a sponsor-organized swap of machines with MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi in 2019. "I've always loved MotoGP. I'm interested in the potential growth of the sport, but I haven't looked that far into it just yet," Hamilton said at the British Grand Prix when asked specifically if he was interested in buying Gresini. "But anything's possible. I'm definitely interested in, as I said before, about equity and already with the (Denver) Broncos, it was already a first step in team ownership. "And so, yeah, I think over the next five to 10 years, there'll be hopefully more. We'll see where." In August 2022, Hamilton further immersed himself in sports teams ownership, with the National Football League's Denver Broncos. Also in 2022 he was involved in a failed bid for Premier League side Chelsea. Hamilton's possible investment in Gresini MotoGP would become the tip of his bigger agenda of sports representation and diversity. Racing world observers now eagerly await developments on this count, as speculation runs rife about whether or not Hamilton will take up ownership of the MotoGP team.

Is Lewis Hamilton shifting gears to MotoGP ownership?

Formula One's Mercedes team has called in police to investigate an 'anonymous' email sent to some F1 representatives. The email accuses Mercedes of 'deliberately sabotaging' outgoing driver Lewis Hamilton's car.

It is to be noted that the email was sent to same representatives who had received leak about Red Bull boss Christian Horner's sexual misconduct. The email sender claims to be a former team member.

The contents of the email message also suggest that Mercedes have intentionally put Hamilton on harm's way at recent events. It is to be noted that Hamilton is all set to leave Mercedes in 2025 to join Ferrari. &nbsp;

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Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, however, has not reacted to the message kindly and asked for a full-fledged inquiry in the matter.

"It is not from a member of the team; when we are getting these kinds of emails, and we are getting tons of them, it is upsetting, particularly when someone is talking about death and all these things," Wolff said on Friday.

"On this particular one, I have instructed to go full force with police inquiring it, researching the IP address, researching the phone number, because online abuse in that way needs to stop. People can't hide behind their phones, or their computers, and abuse teams or drivers in a way like this," he added.

Hamilton was also asked about the same at Thursday's Media Day to which he replied: &nbsp;"We're all in the same boat, we're all working hard together and we all want to finish on a high. We owe that to our long-term relationship."

Hamilton, however, said that he had not yet seen the mail which was sent last week.

In the ongoing season, Mercedes is fourth on the constructor's championship with 124 points. As for Hamilton, he's eighth on driver's standings with 55 points.

Formula One's Mercedes team has called in police to investigate an 'anonymous' email sent to some F1 representatives. The email accuses Mercedes of 'deliberately sabotaging' outgoing driver Lewis Hamilton's car.

Formula One's Mercedes team has called in police to investigate an 'anonymous' email sent to some F1 representatives. The email accuses Mercedes of 'deliberately sabotaging' outgoing driver Lewis Hamilton's car. It is to be noted that the email was sent to same representatives who had received leak about Red Bull boss Christian Horner's sexual misconduct. The email sender claims to be a former team member. The contents of the email message also suggest that Mercedes have intentionally put Hamilton on harm's way at recent events. It is to be noted that Hamilton is all set to leave Mercedes in 2025 to join Ferrari. Also Read: Euro 2024: Roberto Baggio, former Italian football star, robbed during Spain vs Italy match Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, however, has not reacted to the message kindly and asked for a full-fledged inquiry in the matter. "It is not from a member of the team; when we are getting these kinds of emails, and we are getting tons of them, it is upsetting, particularly when someone is talking about death and all these things," Wolff said on Friday. "On this particular one, I have instructed to go full force with police inquiring it, researching the IP address, researching the phone number, because online abuse in that way needs to stop. People can't hide behind their phones, or their computers, and abuse teams or drivers in a way like this," he added. Hamilton was also asked about the same at Thursday's Media Day to which he replied: "We're all in the same boat, we're all working hard together and we all want to finish on a high. We owe that to our long-term relationship." Hamilton, however, said that he had not yet seen the mail which was sent last week. In the ongoing season, Mercedes is fourth on the constructor's championship with 124 points. As for Hamilton, he's eighth on driver's standings with 55 points.

Mercedes calls police to investigate 'email' accusing team of DELIBERATELY HARMING Lewis Hamilton

Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur recently opened up on how the dynamic between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc would be from 2025 season. With Hamilton set to leave Mercedes and become a part of Ferrari from next season, he will be partnering with Leclerc, who recently won the Monaco Grand Prix. Thus, Vasseur opined on this and stated that he prefers having two strong drivers rathan than just one.&nbsp;

While Hamilton has been struggling of late, he remains the most successful F1 driver on the grid in terms of race and championship wins. Leclerc, on the other hand, has been performing well in 2024 with a win in Monaco. He occupies the second spot in the drivers' championship table this season, with Hamilton at eighth, after the first eight races. Thus, many have their eyes on how Leclerc and Hamilton would fair against each other on and off the track from the next season.

Speaking to Motorsport.com, Vasseur stated that having&nbsp;Leclerc and Hamilton on their side will only help Ferrari in collecting championship points. The team principal said, "I don't think so, because I think you have a kind of mutual benefit into the team, and we are getting probably more points with two drivers than with one and a half."

He further added, "I am really convinced that I prefer having two strong ones than not. For sure, you can imagine the fact that you have two drivers and a potential of points for the team you are speaking about two. But I am sure that the potential of points for the team with two good drivers is much higher than with one and a half. That's my view."

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When Hamilton's move to Ferrari was confirmed early this year, with him replacing Carlos Sainz, Leclerc revealed that he had contacted the Briton driver and is looking forward to working with him.

Speaking to F1.com, the 26-year-old had said, "Well, obviously these kind of deals are not finalised overnight, so it takes of course time. I was aware of those discussions before signing my [new] deal. It didn’t come out as a surprise after signing."

He added, "We’ve had discussions with Lewis, especially when everything was announced and official. We texted each other of course. As I said, Lewis is a great champion with a lot of experience and so much success. It’s always interesting to have a new team mate as you learn different ways of working and of driving. Even more so when my new team mate is a seven-time world champion."

At present, both the drivers are gearing up for the upcoming Canadian GP on June 9.

Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur recently opened up on how the dynamic between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc would be from 2025 season. With Hamilton set to leave Mercedes and become a part of Ferrari from next season, he will be partnering with Leclerc, who recently won the Monaco Grand Prix.

Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur recently opened up on how the dynamic between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc would be from 2025 season. With Hamilton set to leave Mercedes and become a part of Ferrari from next season, he will be partnering with Leclerc, who recently won the Monaco Grand Prix. Thus, Vasseur opined on this and stated that he prefers having two strong drivers rathan than just one. While Hamilton has been struggling of late, he remains the most successful F1 driver on the grid in terms of race and championship wins. Leclerc, on the other hand, has been performing well in 2024 with a win in Monaco. He occupies the second spot in the drivers' championship table this season, with Hamilton at eighth, after the first eight races. Thus, many have their eyes on how Leclerc and Hamilton would fair against each other on and off the track from the next season. Speaking to Motorsport.com, Vasseur stated that having Leclerc and Hamilton on their side will only help Ferrari in collecting championship points. The team principal said, "I don't think so, because I think you have a kind of mutual benefit into the team, and we are getting probably more points with two drivers than with one and a half." He further added, "I am really convinced that I prefer having two strong ones than not. For sure, you can imagine the fact that you have two drivers and a potential of points for the team you are speaking about two. But I am sure that the potential of points for the team with two good drivers is much higher than with one and a half. That's my view." Also read: Formula 1: Sergio Perez agrees to two-year contract extension with Red Bull When Hamilton's move to Ferrari was confirmed early this year, with him replacing Carlos Sainz, Leclerc revealed that he had contacted the Briton driver and is looking forward to working with him. Speaking to F1.com, the 26-year-old had said, "Well, obviously these kind of deals are not finalised overnight, so it takes of course time. I was aware of those discussions before signing my [new] deal. It didn’t come out as a surprise after signing." He added, "We’ve had discussions with Lewis, especially when everything was announced and official. We texted each other of course. As I said, Lewis is a great champion with a lot of experience and so much success. It’s always interesting to have a new team mate as you learn different ways of working and of driving. Even more so when my new team mate is a seven-time world champion." At present, both the drivers are gearing up for the upcoming Canadian GP on June 9.

'I prefer...': Ferrari's Frederic Vasseur reflects on Hamilton and Leclerc's F1 partnership from 2025

After finishing sixth at the Italian Grand Prix, on Sunday (May 19), seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton opined that Mercedes are in 'no-man's land'. He ended at the sixth spot after being 35 seconds behind Red Bull's race winner Max Verstappen. Teammate George Russell came seventh as Mercedes have fallen behind in the Formula One constructors' standings -- being at the fourth spot with 79 points while third-placed McLaren have 154.

After the result on Sunday in Italy, Great Britan driver said, "We are in no-man’s land. There wasn’t much more for us to get today. He further stated, "It is where we are and we have to do the best we can and that is the best we could do today."

Meanwhile, Russell also referred to 'no-man's land' but reaffirmed that the once-dominant Mercedes remain "super-motivated". "We have got to just keep pushing. The car was capable of P6 and P7 and that is where we finished."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-italian-grand-prix-red-bulls-max-verstappen-holds-off-mclarens-lando-norris-for-thrilling-win-723188">Italian Grand Prix: Red Bull's Max Verstappen holds off McLaren's Lando Norris for thrilling win</a>

Despite an unfavourable result, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff felt they had taken a small step forward. "Our closest competitors have also done&nbsp;so recently, but we have closed the gap to the front a little. We still have a lot of work to do and, of course, we are all frustrated finishing P6 and P7," The Austrian added. "There is more to come though, and it is all about making incremental gains."

Verstappen, on the other hand, won his fifth race, in seven, this season. In addition, he continues to dominant at Italy, having won the past three races in the country since 2021. Notably, the Italian GP in 2020 was cancelled due to heavy flooding.

After the race, Verstappen said, "I had no grip anymore. I was sliding a lot. I saw Lando (Norris, who finished second) closing in. The last 10 laps were flat out.&nbsp;It's difficult when the tyres were not working anymore and you have to go flat out. I couldn't afford to make too many mistakes. Luckily we didn't."

After finishing sixth at the Italian Grand Prix, on Sunday (May 19), seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton opined that Mercedes are in 'no-man's land'. He ended at the sixth spot after being 35 seconds behind Red Bull's race winner Max Verstappen.

After finishing sixth at the Italian Grand Prix, on Sunday (May 19), seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton opined that Mercedes are in 'no-man's land'. He ended at the sixth spot after being 35 seconds behind Red Bull's race winner Max Verstappen. Teammate George Russell came seventh as Mercedes have fallen behind in the Formula One constructors' standings -- being at the fourth spot with 79 points while third-placed McLaren have 154. After the result on Sunday in Italy, Great Britan driver said, "We are in no-man’s land. There wasn’t much more for us to get today. He further stated, "It is where we are and we have to do the best we can and that is the best we could do today." Meanwhile, Russell also referred to 'no-man's land' but reaffirmed that the once-dominant Mercedes remain "super-motivated". "We have got to just keep pushing. The car was capable of P6 and P7 and that is where we finished." Also read: Italian Grand Prix: Red Bull's Max Verstappen holds off McLaren's Lando Norris for thrilling win Despite an unfavourable result, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff felt they had taken a small step forward. "Our closest competitors have also done so recently, but we have closed the gap to the front a little. We still have a lot of work to do and, of course, we are all frustrated finishing P6 and P7," The Austrian added. "There is more to come though, and it is all about making incremental gains." Verstappen, on the other hand, won his fifth race, in seven, this season. In addition, he continues to dominant at Italy, having won the past three races in the country since 2021. Notably, the Italian GP in 2020 was cancelled due to heavy flooding. After the race, Verstappen said, "I had no grip anymore. I was sliding a lot. I saw Lando (Norris, who finished second) closing in. The last 10 laps were flat out. It's difficult when the tyres were not working anymore and you have to go flat out. I couldn't afford to make too many mistakes. Luckily we didn't."

Mercedes are in 'no-man's land', says Lewis Hamilton after finishing sixth at Italian Grand Prix

Fernando Alonso has accused the Formula One stewards of harbouring a strong bias against drivers of certain nationalities, especially Spanish, after Lewis Hamilton escaped a penalty for his involvement in the first-lap incident during Saturday's (May 4) sprint race in Miami.&nbsp;

Alonso claimed "nationality" plays a role in the stewards' decisions, adding that he was going to have a chat with the FIA president over the issue.&nbsp;

“I do feel that nationality matters.&nbsp;I will speak with Mohammed (Ben Sulayem, FIA president), with FIA, whatever," said Alonso.&nbsp;

"I need to make sure that there is not anything wrong with my nationality or anything that can influence any decision – not only for me, also for the future generation of Spanish drivers that need to be protected," he added.

While Hamilton escaped any penalty for his actions, the same has not been the case with Alonso lately. The Aston Martin driver was penalised 10 seconds and slapped with three penalty points on his license for crashing into Carlos Sainz during the sprint in Shanghai.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-staggering-contract-sum-offered-by-mercedes-to-lure-verstappen-from-red-bull-716710">Also read |&nbsp;Revealed! Staggering contract sum offered by Mercedes to lure Verstappen from Red Bull</a>

<h2>What happened in the sprint?</h2>

The incident happened on the first lap as Alonso whacked into the inside of teammate Lance Stroll. While McLaren's Lando Norris was on the outside of the Aston Martin teammates, Hamilton made it a four-into-one scenario by ploughing straight into Alonso, flying up inside at Turn 1.&nbsp;

Hamilton could be heard explaining his team that he'd seen a "gap" and gone for it. However, the commentators points out that the British driver had used the Aston Martin as his breaking point.&nbsp;

While most anticipated a penalty for the seven-time world champions, the stewards justified their&nbsp;non-investigation on the grounds no one driver was predominantly to blame and that it was anyway on the first lap, when leniency is exercised.

“While it appeared to us that the incidents began with cars 14 [Alonso] and 18 [Stroll], the sudden and fast arrival of car 44 contributed to the various collisions. However, we were not able to identify one or more drivers wholly or predominantly to blame for the various collisions or any one of them," the stewards said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Red Bull's Max Verstappen ultimately won the sprint as Alonso had to settle with 15th point on Sunday's starting grid.&nbsp;

<h2>Starting grid for the Miami GP:&nbsp;</h2>

1. Max Verstappen, Red Bull 
2. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari 
3. Carlos Sainz, Ferrari 
4. Sergio Perez, Red Bull 
5. Lando Norris, McLaren 
6. Oscar Piastri, McLaren 
7. George Russell, Mercedes 
8. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes 
9. Nico Hulkenberg, Haas 
10. Yuki Tsunoda, RB 
11. Lance Stroll, Aston Martin 
12. Pierre Gasly, Alpine 
13. Esteban Ocon, Alpine 
14. Alex Albon, Williams 
15. Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin 
16. Valtteri Bottas, Sauber 
17. Logan Sargeant, Williams 
18. Kevin Magnussen, Haas 
19. Zhou Guanyu, Sauber 
20. Daniel Ricciardo, RB

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Fernando Alonso has accused the Formula One stewards of harbouring a strong bias against drivers of certain nationalities, especially Spanish, after Lewis Hamilton escaped a penalty for his involvement in the first-lap incident during Saturday's (May 4) sprint race in Miami.

Fernando Alonso has accused the Formula One stewards of harbouring a strong bias against drivers of certain nationalities, especially Spanish, after Lewis Hamilton escaped a penalty for his involvement in the first-lap incident during Saturday's (May 4) sprint race in Miami. Alonso claimed "nationality" plays a role in the stewards' decisions, adding that he was going to have a chat with the FIA president over the issue. “I do feel that nationality matters. I will speak with Mohammed (Ben Sulayem, FIA president), with FIA, whatever," said Alonso. "I need to make sure that there is not anything wrong with my nationality or anything that can influence any decision – not only for me, also for the future generation of Spanish drivers that need to be protected," he added. While Hamilton escaped any penalty for his actions, the same has not been the case with Alonso lately. The Aston Martin driver was penalised 10 seconds and slapped with three penalty points on his license for crashing into Carlos Sainz during the sprint in Shanghai. Also read | Revealed! Staggering contract sum offered by Mercedes to lure Verstappen from Red Bull What happened in the sprint? The incident happened on the first lap as Alonso whacked into the inside of teammate Lance Stroll. While McLaren's Lando Norris was on the outside of the Aston Martin teammates, Hamilton made it a four-into-one scenario by ploughing straight into Alonso, flying up inside at Turn 1. Hamilton could be heard explaining his team that he'd seen a "gap" and gone for it. However, the commentators points out that the British driver had used the Aston Martin as his breaking point. While most anticipated a penalty for the seven-time world champions, the stewards justified their non-investigation on the grounds no one driver was predominantly to blame and that it was anyway on the first lap, when leniency is exercised. “While it appeared to us that the incidents began with cars 14 [Alonso] and 18 [Stroll], the sudden and fast arrival of car 44 contributed to the various collisions. However, we were not able to identify one or more drivers wholly or predominantly to blame for the various collisions or any one of them," the stewards said. Red Bull's Max Verstappen ultimately won the sprint as Alonso had to settle with 15th point on Sunday's starting grid. Starting grid for the Miami GP: 1. Max Verstappen, Red Bull 2. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari 3. Carlos Sainz, Ferrari 4. Sergio Perez, Red Bull 5. Lando Norris, McLaren 6. Oscar Piastri, McLaren 7. George Russell, Mercedes 8. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes 9. Nico Hulkenberg, Haas 10. Yuki Tsunoda, RB 11. Lance Stroll, Aston Martin 12. Pierre Gasly, Alpine 13. Esteban Ocon, Alpine 14. Alex Albon, Williams 15. Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin 16. Valtteri Bottas, Sauber 17. Logan Sargeant, Williams 18. Kevin Magnussen, Haas 19. Zhou Guanyu, Sauber 20. Daniel Ricciardo, RB (With inputs from agencies)

Nationality bias in F1? Fernando Alonso levels serious allegation following Miami GP sprint incident

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on working with rival Max Verstappen's close aide and renowned F1 car design guru,&nbsp;Adrian Newey, after the latter announced he was leaving Red Bull. Hamilton said he would 'love' to work alongside Newey as the British driver moves to Ferrari next year.

Newey departed Red Bull after a successful 20-year partnership where the team won as many as 12 F1 Constructors' and 13 Drivers' Championships.

“If I was to do a list of people I would love to work with, he would absolutely be at the top of it. Adrian has such a great history, track record he has done an amazing job through his career, engaging with teams, the knowledge that he has. It would be a privilege to work with him," said Hamilton on the sidelines of Miami Grand Prix," he said.

Ever since Hamilton announced his decision to leave Mercedes at the end of the season, there have been rumors that Ferrari was on the prowl to secure services of Newey, especially in the backdrop of new regulations kicking in from the 2026 season.

“Racing against a team that he has been so heavily part of over the years has been a massive challenge,” he said. “But we need to remember there are a lot of people in the background. There is not one key person, it’s a whole team of people that do the job."

“I don’t anticipate Red Bull not continuing to build great cars moving forward but any team would be fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-is-in-danger-of-falling-apart-verstappens-father-hints-at-red-bull-drivers-future-after-neweys-exit-717334">Also read |&nbsp;'Team is in danger of falling apart': Verstappen's father hints at Red Bull driver's future after Newey's exit</a>

<h2>Why did Newey quit Red Bull?</h2>

Since the start of the new F1 season, there had been speculations that Newey was considering leaving Red Bull after accusations of inappropriate behaviour surfaced against team principal Christian Horner.&nbsp;

Although Newey did not cite any particular reason for his departure in the parting statement, experts are of the view that Red Bull's hierarchy and its support of Horner contributed to his exit.&nbsp;

"For almost two decades it has been my great honour to have played a key role in Red Bull Racing's progress from upstart newcomer to multiple title-winning Team. However, I feel now is an opportune moment to hand that baton over to others and to seek new challenges for myself," said Newey.

Meanwhile, Horner, after the major announcement paid flowing tribute to Newey, saying all of Red Bull's "greatest moments from the past 20 years" had come due to the British engineer's technical brilliance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on working with rival Max Verstappen's close aide and renowned F1 car design guru, Adrian Newey, after the latter announced he was leaving Red Bull.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on working with rival Max Verstappen's close aide and renowned F1 car design guru, Adrian Newey, after the latter announced he was leaving Red Bull. Hamilton said he would 'love' to work alongside Newey as the British driver moves to Ferrari next year. Newey departed Red Bull after a successful 20-year partnership where the team won as many as 12 F1 Constructors' and 13 Drivers' Championships. “If I was to do a list of people I would love to work with, he would absolutely be at the top of it. Adrian has such a great history, track record he has done an amazing job through his career, engaging with teams, the knowledge that he has. It would be a privilege to work with him," said Hamilton on the sidelines of Miami Grand Prix," he said. Ever since Hamilton announced his decision to leave Mercedes at the end of the season, there have been rumors that Ferrari was on the prowl to secure services of Newey, especially in the backdrop of new regulations kicking in from the 2026 season. “Racing against a team that he has been so heavily part of over the years has been a massive challenge,” he said. “But we need to remember there are a lot of people in the background. There is not one key person, it’s a whole team of people that do the job." “I don’t anticipate Red Bull not continuing to build great cars moving forward but any team would be fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him." Also read | 'Team is in danger of falling apart': Verstappen's father hints at Red Bull driver's future after Newey's exit Why did Newey quit Red Bull? Since the start of the new F1 season, there had been speculations that Newey was considering leaving Red Bull after accusations of inappropriate behaviour surfaced against team principal Christian Horner. Although Newey did not cite any particular reason for his departure in the parting statement, experts are of the view that Red Bull's hierarchy and its support of Horner contributed to his exit. "For almost two decades it has been my great honour to have played a key role in Red Bull Racing's progress from upstart newcomer to multiple title-winning Team. However, I feel now is an opportune moment to hand that baton over to others and to seek new challenges for myself," said Newey. Meanwhile, Horner, after the major announcement paid flowing tribute to Newey, saying all of Red Bull's "greatest moments from the past 20 years" had come due to the British engineer's technical brilliance. (With inputs from agencies)

'Would love to': Lewis Hamilton hints at working with rival Max Verstappen's close aide

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen recently opened up on his relationship with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman, during the Chinese Grand Prix, heaped praise on the Great Britan driver and says he has no desire to deny the greatness of the seven-time world champion, currently with Mercedes. Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari from the 2025 season.

It is to be noted that Verstappen and Hamilton were involved in a bitter battle for the 2021 championship that continued throughout the season. Their relations were not the best due to multiple on-track collisions and were further complicated by a controversial end to the season finale, seeing Red Bull driver Verstappen crowned champion.

Nonetheless, seems like everything is now in the past and both Hamilton and Verstappen have moved on. During the China GP weekend, held on April 21, the Dutchman stated that he maintains a straightforward relationship with his arch-rival and there is mutual respect between them.

<h2>Hamilton&nbsp;definitely&nbsp;one of the greatest drivers ever: Verstappen</h2>

Talking to the Daily Mail, Verstappen said, "Of course, we had a big rivalry in 2021 but ultimately we do have a lot of respect for each other. He is definitely up there as one of the greatest drivers ever. I have no need or desire to deny that."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-role-of-driver-in-car-development-always-overestimated-wolff-downplays-hamiltons-exit-from-mercedes-714511">F1: ‘Role of driver in car development always overestimated’ - Wolff downplays Hamilton’s exit from Mercedes</a>

Further, 25-year-old Verstappen lauded Hamilton for his dominant run in the sport, wherein he racked up six championships between 2014 and 2020 before the former took over. The Red Bull driver further stated that Hamilton has made a difference in the sport courtesy of the high points in his career.

"Consistency is his key, and staying on top of his game. That is not so hard when you are so talented – it doesn’t take a lot of effort to do that. The way he has managed his championships is very impressive. He has stood up when he needed to and made the difference," he added.

The two recently shared the top two positions in the China GP at the Shanghai International Circuit with Verstappen ending at the top.

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen recently opened up on his relationship with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman, during the Chinese Grand Prix, heaped praise on the Great Britan driver and says he has no desire to deny the greatness of the seven-time world champion, currently with Mercedes.

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen recently opened up on his relationship with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman, during the Chinese Grand Prix, heaped praise on the Great Britan driver and says he has no desire to deny the greatness of the seven-time world champion, currently with Mercedes. Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari from the 2025 season. It is to be noted that Verstappen and Hamilton were involved in a bitter battle for the 2021 championship that continued throughout the season. Their relations were not the best due to multiple on-track collisions and were further complicated by a controversial end to the season finale, seeing Red Bull driver Verstappen crowned champion. Nonetheless, seems like everything is now in the past and both Hamilton and Verstappen have moved on. During the China GP weekend, held on April 21, the Dutchman stated that he maintains a straightforward relationship with his arch-rival and there is mutual respect between them. Hamilton definitely one of the greatest drivers ever: Verstappen Talking to the Daily Mail, Verstappen said, "Of course, we had a big rivalry in 2021 but ultimately we do have a lot of respect for each other. He is definitely up there as one of the greatest drivers ever. I have no need or desire to deny that." Also read: F1: ‘Role of driver in car development always overestimated’ - Wolff downplays Hamilton’s exit from Mercedes Further, 25-year-old Verstappen lauded Hamilton for his dominant run in the sport, wherein he racked up six championships between 2014 and 2020 before the former took over. The Red Bull driver further stated that Hamilton has made a difference in the sport courtesy of the high points in his career. "Consistency is his key, and staying on top of his game. That is not so hard when you are so talented – it doesn’t take a lot of effort to do that. The way he has managed his championships is very impressive. He has stood up when he needed to and made the difference," he added. The two recently shared the top two positions in the China GP at the Shanghai International Circuit with Verstappen ending at the top.

'He is one of the greatest drivers': Max Verstappen on relations with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, for Ferrari, from the 2025 season with the development becoming official early this year, in February. Recently, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff downplayed Hamilton's exit and mentioned that the role of a driver in the development of the car is often 'overestimated'. It is to be noted that Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, signed a two-year extension with Mercedes earlier. However, he had an exit clause in the second year and the Great Britain driver used it to leave Mercedes for Ferrari.

While many believed that Hamilton's exit would leave Mercedes reeling, Wolff claimed that he is fine with the move. Talking to Sky Germany, Wolff made it clear that the veteran's departure won't impact the team as the driver's role in the car development remains minimal.

In this regard, Wolff said, "The role of the driver in the development of the car is always overestimated. Once a year, we give input on the next development of the single-seater and during the season there is simply feedback on the handling of the card."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rattled-erik-ten-hag-beefs-with-embarrasing-media-after-man-uniteds-fa-cup-win-714256">Rattled Erik ten Hag beefs with 'embarrasing' media after Man United's FA Cup win</a>

Wolff, in fact, further opined that it is worse to lose an engineer than a driver for the team. He added, "From this point of view, it is worse to lose an engineer who goes to an other team after 12 months, than a driver who changes team. There is no great loss of skills."

Mercedes is yet to finalise Hamilton's replacement with strong rumours of Carlos Sainz being a leading contender. Notably, Hamilton is joining Ferrari in place of Sainz from 2025 season.

While Wolff has brushed aside speculations by saying the driver does not impact the car's development severely, Ferrari's CEO Benedotto Vigna feels completely opposite.&nbsp;He told CNBC, “Lewis will bring us what is in our DNA, what our founder [Enzo Ferrari] has said many times, a desire for continuous progress which is fundamental for a company, a team, to continue to be successful in the future."

Vigna further stressed how Hamilton's presence could bring positive change within the team environment. He added, "For Ferrari, it is fundamental to have the soul of a driver. When everything is going well in a company, we forget that things can change. Having people like Lewis in the house will help remind us that things can change and you must always be vigilant if you go too fast in a corner, you risk spinning, which is why you must keep all four wheels firmly on the ground."

Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, for Ferrari, from the 2025 season with the development becoming official early this year, in February. Recently, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff downplayed Hamilton's exit and mentioned that the role of a driver in the development of the car is often 'overestimated'.

Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, for Ferrari, from the 2025 season with the development becoming official early this year, in February. Recently, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff downplayed Hamilton's exit and mentioned that the role of a driver in the development of the car is often 'overestimated'. It is to be noted that Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, signed a two-year extension with Mercedes earlier. However, he had an exit clause in the second year and the Great Britain driver used it to leave Mercedes for Ferrari. While many believed that Hamilton's exit would leave Mercedes reeling, Wolff claimed that he is fine with the move. Talking to Sky Germany, Wolff made it clear that the veteran's departure won't impact the team as the driver's role in the car development remains minimal. In this regard, Wolff said, "The role of the driver in the development of the car is always overestimated. Once a year, we give input on the next development of the single-seater and during the season there is simply feedback on the handling of the card." Also read: Rattled Erik ten Hag beefs with 'embarrasing' media after Man United's FA Cup win Wolff, in fact, further opined that it is worse to lose an engineer than a driver for the team. He added, "From this point of view, it is worse to lose an engineer who goes to an other team after 12 months, than a driver who changes team. There is no great loss of skills." Mercedes is yet to finalise Hamilton's replacement with strong rumours of Carlos Sainz being a leading contender. Notably, Hamilton is joining Ferrari in place of Sainz from 2025 season. While Wolff has brushed aside speculations by saying the driver does not impact the car's development severely, Ferrari's CEO Benedotto Vigna feels completely opposite. He told CNBC, “Lewis will bring us what is in our DNA, what our founder [Enzo Ferrari] has said many times, a desire for continuous progress which is fundamental for a company, a team, to continue to be successful in the future." Vigna further stressed how Hamilton's presence could bring positive change within the team environment. He added, "For Ferrari, it is fundamental to have the soul of a driver. When everything is going well in a company, we forget that things can change. Having people like Lewis in the house will help remind us that things can change and you must always be vigilant if you go too fast in a corner, you risk spinning, which is why you must keep all four wheels firmly on the ground."

F1: ‘Role of driver in car development always overestimated’ - Wolff downplays Hamilton’s exit from Mercedes

The Mercedes F1 team has&nbsp;announced a staggering $680.7 million&nbsp;turnover for the year 2023, showcasing a whopping increase of $89.56 million from the previous year. With this, the Lewis Hamilton-starrer team has created history by becoming the first-ever F1 team in history to surpass the £500 million ($622mn) mark. The revelation, made by Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd -- owner of the team -- comes at a time when the team's performance has been below-par throughout the season.

Notably, despite the increase in turnover, Mercedes' generated profit was 6.57 per cent less when compared to 2022. Two years back, the F1 team had churned out $11.17 million in profit, compared to $10.4 million in 2023

The Mercedes report read, "The team’s share of television coverage showed a small decline to 14.7% for 2023, reflecting the lower number of podium finishes the team enjoyed versus 2022."

"The cumulative Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) remained strong for commercial partners and shareholders, at $5.3 billion. The team continued to grow strongly on social media, with a cumulative followership of 36 million (+15%) and a total of 465 million engagements (+9%)."

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Mercedes also&nbsp;pointed out the various factors leading to this favourable turnover. The cast cap, regulated by the FIA, had a positive bearing on the team's spending coupled with the increase in the staff working -- from 1,114 to 1,289 -- also made a significant difference. In addition, the team revealed in its statement that the television coverage had gone down due to the smaller number of podiums they managed throughout the F1 season, but grew positively on social media platforms.

At present, Mercedes has not had the best of starts to the ongoing season, despite a modified design. They are currently occupying the fourth position in the championship.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Mercedes is also gearing up for Hamilton's farewell as the veteran driver is set to join Ferrari in the 2025 season.&nbsp;

The Mercedes F1 team has announced a staggering $680.7 million turnover for the year 2023, showcasing a whopping increase of $89.56 million from the previous year.

The Mercedes F1 team has announced a staggering $680.7 million turnover for the year 2023, showcasing a whopping increase of $89.56 million from the previous year. With this, the Lewis Hamilton-starrer team has created history by becoming the first-ever F1 team in history to surpass the £500 million ($622mn) mark. The revelation, made by Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd -- owner of the team -- comes at a time when the team's performance has been below-par throughout the season. Notably, despite the increase in turnover, Mercedes' generated profit was 6.57 per cent less when compared to 2022. Two years back, the F1 team had churned out $11.17 million in profit, compared to $10.4 million in 2023 The Mercedes report read, "The team’s share of television coverage showed a small decline to 14.7% for 2023, reflecting the lower number of podium finishes the team enjoyed versus 2022." "The cumulative Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) remained strong for commercial partners and shareholders, at $5.3 billion. The team continued to grow strongly on social media, with a cumulative followership of 36 million (+15%) and a total of 465 million engagements (+9%)." Also read: Paris Olympics 2024 flame lit at Olympia, birthplace of ancient Games in Greece Mercedes also pointed out the various factors leading to this favourable turnover. The cast cap, regulated by the FIA, had a positive bearing on the team's spending coupled with the increase in the staff working -- from 1,114 to 1,289 -- also made a significant difference. In addition, the team revealed in its statement that the television coverage had gone down due to the smaller number of podiums they managed throughout the F1 season, but grew positively on social media platforms. At present, Mercedes has not had the best of starts to the ongoing season, despite a modified design. They are currently occupying the fourth position in the championship. Meanwhile, Mercedes is also gearing up for Hamilton's farewell as the veteran driver is set to join Ferrari in the 2025 season.

Formula One: Mercedes announces a WHOPPING turnover for 2023 season

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is gearing up for the forthcoming China Grand Prix, which commences on April 21. After his win in Japan, he will once again start as an overwhelming favourite. Ahead of the Grand Prix, speculations have once again become rife that Verstappen is mulling a surprise move, and is in talks with Mercedes. Notably, the Dutchman's current contract with Red Bull extends up to the 2028 season. However, recent reports have hinted that he is contemplating a move to Mercedes soon.

Former Red Bull F1 driver Robert Doornbos has claimed that Verstappen is already in talks with Mercedes, who will bid farewell to Lewis Hamilton as the Great Britain driver will be a part of Ferrari from 2025. Doornbos explained that Verstappen, who has been on a winning spree since 2021, is enquiring about the power units which the Brackley-based squad will use in 2026, the season when the major power unit regulations changes will come into play.&nbsp;

The former Red Bull driver Doornbos told Ziggo Sport, "I have heard from my reliable bird that Max is already having conversations with Mercedes, purely to see one-on-one what the feeling is for the future. What is Mercedes going to do with the engine is one of the most important questions that would have been discussed."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-nikes-campaign-unveiling-athletes-apparel-brings-shacarri-richardson-into-limelight-710446">Paris Olympics: Nike’s campaign unveiling athletes' apparel brings Sha’Carri Richardson into limelight</a>

He further opined, "He already knows what they will do at Ford and Red Bull in 2026. That is a crucial year. You can hardly imagine it, but something is happening behind the scenes. This will be an exciting month. I think we will have a lot of news in April."

It is to be noted that Red Bulls is building power units in-house, in collaboration with Ford, which will be introduced in 2026. On the other hand, Mercedes have a vast experience of building championship-winning engines, having switched to hybrid power units much earlier, i.e. a decade ago.

As the regulation&nbsp;changes are set to shake up the pecking order in the coming years, many teams are wisely preparing their engines. In this regard, Doornbos feels that Verstappen doesn't want to take any chances and end his dominance. Hence, the 26-year-old is closely monitoring his rivals and analysing his options.

Verstappen's compatriot Doornbos added, "He already knows what they will do at Ford and Red Bull in 2026. That is a crucial year. You can hardly imagine it, but something is happening behind the scenes. This will be an exciting month. I think we will have a lot of news in April."&nbsp;

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is gearing up for the forthcoming China Grand Prix, which commences on April 21. After his win in Japan, he will once again start as an overwhelming favourite.

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is gearing up for the forthcoming China Grand Prix, which commences on April 21. After his win in Japan, he will once again start as an overwhelming favourite. Ahead of the Grand Prix, speculations have once again become rife that Verstappen is mulling a surprise move, and is in talks with Mercedes. Notably, the Dutchman's current contract with Red Bull extends up to the 2028 season. However, recent reports have hinted that he is contemplating a move to Mercedes soon. Former Red Bull F1 driver Robert Doornbos has claimed that Verstappen is already in talks with Mercedes, who will bid farewell to Lewis Hamilton as the Great Britain driver will be a part of Ferrari from 2025. Doornbos explained that Verstappen, who has been on a winning spree since 2021, is enquiring about the power units which the Brackley-based squad will use in 2026, the season when the major power unit regulations changes will come into play. The former Red Bull driver Doornbos told Ziggo Sport, "I have heard from my reliable bird that Max is already having conversations with Mercedes, purely to see one-on-one what the feeling is for the future. What is Mercedes going to do with the engine is one of the most important questions that would have been discussed." Also read: Paris Olympics: Nike’s campaign unveiling athletes' apparel brings Sha’Carri Richardson into limelight He further opined, "He already knows what they will do at Ford and Red Bull in 2026. That is a crucial year. You can hardly imagine it, but something is happening behind the scenes. This will be an exciting month. I think we will have a lot of news in April." It is to be noted that Red Bulls is building power units in-house, in collaboration with Ford, which will be introduced in 2026. On the other hand, Mercedes have a vast experience of building championship-winning engines, having switched to hybrid power units much earlier, i.e. a decade ago. As the regulation changes are set to shake up the pecking order in the coming years, many teams are wisely preparing their engines. In this regard, Doornbos feels that Verstappen doesn't want to take any chances and end his dominance. Hence, the 26-year-old is closely monitoring his rivals and analysing his options. Verstappen's compatriot Doornbos added, "He already knows what they will do at Ford and Red Bull in 2026. That is a crucial year. You can hardly imagine it, but something is happening behind the scenes. This will be an exciting month. I think we will have a lot of news in April."

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen in talks with Mercedes for a switch? Former F1 driver makes big remark

Lewis Hamilton could have been a part of Tom Cruise starrer Top Gun: Maverick. Remembering the time he passed up on the offer of starring in the film, the racing superstar revealed he regrets not taking up the role.&nbsp;

In a recent interview with GQ magazine, Lewis Hamilton spoke about becoming friends with Tom Cruise when the action star invited him to the set of his 2014 film Edge of Tomorrow. The pair continued to stay in touch with Tom congratulating him on his races in advance and Lewis returning the favour for his films.&nbsp;

<h2>When Tom Cruise and Lewis Hamilton became good friends</h2>

This led to Tom extending him a chance to work with him in a hypothetical Top Gun sequel. This was years before Top Gun: Maverick actually came to fruition. Lewis recalled, “I said, ‘Dude, if you ever do Top Gun 2, I will even be a janitor,’” The racer added, “’Just let me be in it.'”

Once the sequel started pre-production, Lewis Hamilton revealed that the actor remembered his request and put him in touch with director Joseph Kosinski, who ended up offering the racer a role as one of the film’s pilots.

Lewis Hamilton, however, passed up on the offer. He was busy at the time with his packed schedule, including the 2018 title race, and was also worried about a lack of acting experience. But he later regretted his decision once he saw the 2022 action film starring Tom Cruise, Miles Teller and Glen Powell.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-%E2%80%98becoming-karl-lagerfeld%E2%80%99-gets-3-minute-standing-ovation-in-cannes-708801">‘Becoming Karl Lagerfeld’ gets 3 minute standing ovation in Cannes</a>

Lewis recalled, “Firstly, I hadn’t even had, like, an acting lesson. And I don’t want to be the one that lets this movie down. And then secondly, I just really didn’t have the time to dedicate to it. I remember having to tell Joe and Tom — and it broke my heart. And then I regretted it, naturally, when they showed me the movie and it’s: It could’ve been me! Oh, God, I’m still….”

Lewis Hamilton could have been a part of Tom Cruise starrer Top Gun: Maverick. Remembering the time he passed up on the offer of starring in the film, the racing superstar revealed he regrets not taking up the role.

Lewis Hamilton could have been a part of Tom Cruise starrer Top Gun: Maverick. Remembering the time he passed up on the offer of starring in the film, the racing superstar revealed he regrets not taking up the role. In a recent interview with GQ magazine, Lewis Hamilton spoke about becoming friends with Tom Cruise when the action star invited him to the set of his 2014 film Edge of Tomorrow. The pair continued to stay in touch with Tom congratulating him on his races in advance and Lewis returning the favour for his films. When Tom Cruise and Lewis Hamilton became good friends This led to Tom extending him a chance to work with him in a hypothetical Top Gun sequel. This was years before Top Gun: Maverick actually came to fruition. Lewis recalled, “I said, ‘Dude, if you ever do Top Gun 2, I will even be a janitor,’” The racer added, “’Just let me be in it.'” Once the sequel started pre-production, Lewis Hamilton revealed that the actor remembered his request and put him in touch with director Joseph Kosinski, who ended up offering the racer a role as one of the film’s pilots. Lewis Hamilton, however, passed up on the offer. He was busy at the time with his packed schedule, including the 2018 title race, and was also worried about a lack of acting experience. But he later regretted his decision once he saw the 2022 action film starring Tom Cruise, Miles Teller and Glen Powell. Also read: ‘Becoming Karl Lagerfeld’ gets 3 minute standing ovation in Cannes Lewis recalled, “Firstly, I hadn’t even had, like, an acting lesson. And I don’t want to be the one that lets this movie down. And then secondly, I just really didn’t have the time to dedicate to it. I remember having to tell Joe and Tom — and it broke my heart. And then I regretted it, naturally, when they showed me the movie and it’s: It could’ve been me! Oh, God, I’m still….”

Lewis Hamilton regrets turning down role in Tom Cruise starrer Top Gun: Maverick

Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff has revealed that Sebastian Vettel was 'flirting' with the idea of returning to the grid, as a seat remains for the taking in the German team with Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari next season.&nbsp;

Wolff's statement comes a day after Hamilton threw his weight behind Vettel as the potential candidate to replace him.&nbsp;

"With Seb I have a friendship that goes back a long time, and we are talking about everything," Wolff told Sky Sports on the sidelines of the Japanese Grand Prix.&nbsp;

"Sebastian is flirting with the idea of going back racing, whether it is with Porsche in Le Mans, which is a great programme, or whether it is coming back into Formula 1 - and I try to be a sparring partner and tell him what I think."

Wolff added that Vettel was someone that you can never discount and that he remained a viable choice for the seat in the Mercedes paddock.

"And clearly you can never discount the name for our team as well.&nbsp;His track record is phenomenal and sometimes maybe taking a break is also good to re-evaluate what's important for you and re-find your motivation," said Wolff.&nbsp;

"As I said before, we haven't taken the decision yet and it's not something that we plan to do in the next few weeks."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-i-would-love-him-lewis-hamilton-reveals-who-hed-want-to-replace-him-at-mercedes-next-season-707730">Also read |&nbsp;'I would love him...': Lewis Hamilton reveals who he'd want to replace him at Mercedes next season</a>

<h2>Vettel- Wolff exchange texts&nbsp;</h2>

Last month, Vettel confirmed that he was indeed exchanging texts with Wolff over running back the clock.&nbsp;

“I was surprised by this change [Hamilton to Ferrari]. The Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff didn’t call me, but we briefly exchanged text messages," said Vettel.&nbsp;

"But so far it’s not an issue for me, also because at 36 I still have all the time in the world. So it’s not going away."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-return-for-vettel-mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-and-vettel-exchange-texts-amid-hamiltons-replacement-search-696151">Also read |&nbsp;Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search</a>

Vettel retired from F1 in 2022 with 53 victories to his name and still remains one of the biggest crowd-pullers the sport has ever seen.&nbsp;He recently tested the Porsche 963 sports car that is currently competing in the World Endurance Championship, leading to speculations that the German might compete at Le Mans 24 Hours, scheduled to be held later this year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff has revealed that Sebastian Vettel was 'flirting' with the idea of returning to the grid, as a seat remains for the taking in the German team with Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari next season.

Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff has revealed that Sebastian Vettel was 'flirting' with the idea of returning to the grid, as a seat remains for the taking in the German team with Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari next season. Wolff's statement comes a day after Hamilton threw his weight behind Vettel as the potential candidate to replace him. "With Seb I have a friendship that goes back a long time, and we are talking about everything," Wolff told Sky Sports on the sidelines of the Japanese Grand Prix. "Sebastian is flirting with the idea of going back racing, whether it is with Porsche in Le Mans, which is a great programme, or whether it is coming back into Formula 1 - and I try to be a sparring partner and tell him what I think." Wolff added that Vettel was someone that you can never discount and that he remained a viable choice for the seat in the Mercedes paddock. "And clearly you can never discount the name for our team as well. His track record is phenomenal and sometimes maybe taking a break is also good to re-evaluate what's important for you and re-find your motivation," said Wolff. "As I said before, we haven't taken the decision yet and it's not something that we plan to do in the next few weeks." Also read | 'I would love him...': Lewis Hamilton reveals who he'd want to replace him at Mercedes next season Vettel- Wolff exchange texts Last month, Vettel confirmed that he was indeed exchanging texts with Wolff over running back the clock. “I was surprised by this change [Hamilton to Ferrari]. The Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff didn’t call me, but we briefly exchanged text messages," said Vettel. "But so far it’s not an issue for me, also because at 36 I still have all the time in the world. So it’s not going away." Also read | Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search Vettel retired from F1 in 2022 with 53 victories to his name and still remains one of the biggest crowd-pullers the sport has ever seen. He recently tested the Porsche 963 sports car that is currently competing in the World Endurance Championship, leading to speculations that the German might compete at Le Mans 24 Hours, scheduled to be held later this year. (With inputs from agencies)

'Sebastian is flirting...': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on Vettel replacing Lewis Hamilton next season

Lewis Hamilton has thrown his weight behind Sebastian Vettel as the potential candidate to replace him at Mercedes next season when the British driver&nbsp;moves to Ferrari.&nbsp;

Hamilton's support comes at a time when it has been revealed that Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff has been speaking to Vettel about a potential comeback.&nbsp;

“I would love for Seb to come back and I think it would be an amazing option for the team,” said Hamilton.

“German driver, multi-world championship-winning driver, and someone who has amazing values who would continue to take the team forward. I’d love it if he came back," the Briton added.&nbsp;

Vettel, the four-time world champion, retired from the grid at the end of 2022, having donned the Aston Martin jersey in his final hurrah. Hamilton said he wanted someone that cared about the team to replace him and the German ticked nearly all the boxes.&nbsp;

“The only thing I really care about is that the team takes on someone with integrity and that are aligned with the team and where the team’s going. Someone compassionate that’s able to work with great people and continues to lift them up. There’s so many great people in this team.”

Fans have been long hoping that the former Red Bull driver returns to F1 once again. He is still only 36 and younger than both Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso who are going strong on the circuit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sebastian-vettel-pondering-f1-return-four-time-world-champion-provides-update-706002">Also read |&nbsp;Sebastian Vettel pondering F1 return? Four-time world champion provides update</a>

<h2>Vettel and Wolff exchange texts</h2>

Last month, Vettel confirmed that he was indeed exchanging texts with Wolff and pondering a return to the paddock.&nbsp;

“I was surprised by this change [Hamilton to Ferrari]. The Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff didn’t call me, but we briefly exchanged text messages," said Vettel.&nbsp;

"But so far it’s not an issue for me, also because at 36 I still have all the time in the world. So it’s not going away."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-return-for-vettel-mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-and-vettel-exchange-texts-amid-hamiltons-replacement-search-696151">Also read |&nbsp;Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search</a>

Speaking to&nbsp;Sky Germany,&nbsp;Wolf said Vettel still had the potential to compete in F1. Wolf added that Mercedes needed to quickly decide in the coming months if they wanted a young driver to replace Hamilton or some experienced driver.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Sebastian is a great guy and a giant of this sport. I think he still has the speed. After three or four races, we have to decide whether to go for youth or experience. Or do we optimise in the short term and give the youngsters more time to gain experience?" said Wolff.&nbsp;

Vettel retired from F1 with 53 victories to his name and still remains one of the biggest crowd-pullers the sport has ever seen. He recently tested the Porsche 963 sports car that is currently competing in the World Endurance Championship, leading to speculations that the German might compete at Le Mans 24 Hours, scheduled to be held later this year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lewis Hamilton has thrown his weight behind Sebastian Vettel as the potential candidate to replace him at Mercedes next season when the British driver moves to Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton has thrown his weight behind Sebastian Vettel as the potential candidate to replace him at Mercedes next season when the British driver moves to Ferrari. Hamilton's support comes at a time when it has been revealed that Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff has been speaking to Vettel about a potential comeback. “I would love for Seb to come back and I think it would be an amazing option for the team,” said Hamilton. “German driver, multi-world championship-winning driver, and someone who has amazing values who would continue to take the team forward. I’d love it if he came back," the Briton added. Vettel, the four-time world champion, retired from the grid at the end of 2022, having donned the Aston Martin jersey in his final hurrah. Hamilton said he wanted someone that cared about the team to replace him and the German ticked nearly all the boxes. “The only thing I really care about is that the team takes on someone with integrity and that are aligned with the team and where the team’s going. Someone compassionate that’s able to work with great people and continues to lift them up. There’s so many great people in this team.” Fans have been long hoping that the former Red Bull driver returns to F1 once again. He is still only 36 and younger than both Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso who are going strong on the circuit. Also read | Sebastian Vettel pondering F1 return? Four-time world champion provides update Vettel and Wolff exchange texts Last month, Vettel confirmed that he was indeed exchanging texts with Wolff and pondering a return to the paddock. “I was surprised by this change [Hamilton to Ferrari]. The Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff didn’t call me, but we briefly exchanged text messages," said Vettel. "But so far it’s not an issue for me, also because at 36 I still have all the time in the world. So it’s not going away." Also read | Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search Speaking to Sky Germany, Wolf said Vettel still had the potential to compete in F1. Wolf added that Mercedes needed to quickly decide in the coming months if they wanted a young driver to replace Hamilton or some experienced driver. "Sebastian is a great guy and a giant of this sport. I think he still has the speed. After three or four races, we have to decide whether to go for youth or experience. Or do we optimise in the short term and give the youngsters more time to gain experience?" said Wolff. Vettel retired from F1 with 53 victories to his name and still remains one of the biggest crowd-pullers the sport has ever seen. He recently tested the Porsche 963 sports car that is currently competing in the World Endurance Championship, leading to speculations that the German might compete at Le Mans 24 Hours, scheduled to be held later this year. (With inputs from agencies)

F1 | 'I would love him...': Lewis Hamilton reveals who he'd want to replace him at Mercedes next season

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has said he cannot picture Lewis Hamilton in the 'Ferrari red' as the Briton prepares to switch allegiances from the next season.

The seven-time world champion made the shock announcement before the start of the 2024 season. He will kickstart a new chapter in his storied career when he dons the iconic red overalls of the Italian carmaker at 40.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I can't imagine him in red. I don't think it suits him.&nbsp;But I think that picture is going to be interesting," said Wolff.&nbsp;

The Mercedes boss also took a cheeky dig at Hamilton and told him that he would only be seeing the 'rear wing' of&nbsp;Silver Arrows car, come the next season.&nbsp;

"And then I told him [Hamilton], you've got to really picture our rear wing because that’s the perspective you're going to have."

Although Mercedes is yet to announce a replacement for Hamilton, Wolff has shown no hesitation in roping Max Verstappen if he were to leave Red Bull due to the ongoing fiasco, involving Christian Horner.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-mercedes-team-principals-wife-files-criminal-complaint-against-fia-702555">Also read |&nbsp;Formula One: Mercedes team principal's wife files criminal complaint against FIA</a>

<h2>Wolff clears slate with Max and Jos</h2>

Wolff also revealed that he had cleared the air with Max as well as his dad, Jos Verstappen, over the 2021 season where the Dutch driver narrowly won his maiden championship.&nbsp;

“It’s unfortunate that there were those moments of rivalry, but maybe they would have acted that way too if they were in my position and I will always defend my own driver," said Wolff.&nbsp;

“Looking back on that whole year [2021], it is clear that I made some mistakes. In the way I dealt with some things. I cannot reverse that. If you look at Max’s last two years, there is no-one even close to him. As a driver, you also can’t do it without a good car, engine and team around you. Max is in that position now," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-ferrari-transfer-ex-british-driver-martin-brundle-compares-shock-move-with-michael-schumacher-686322" target="_blank">Also read | Lewis Hamilton Ferrari transfer: Ex-British driver Martin Brundle compares shock move with Michael Schumacher</a>

Speaking about Wolff's interest, Verstappen said it was "nice to hear that"but it didn't have any bearing on his decision to leave Red Bull, at least at this stage.&nbsp;

"Toto and I, we had our little moments but that's normal between two teams battling for the championship. But the respect has always been there. From my side, it doesn't change anything."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has said he cannot picture Lewis Hamilton in the 'Ferrari red' as the Briton prepares to switch allegiances from the next season.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has said he cannot picture Lewis Hamilton in the 'Ferrari red' as the Briton prepares to switch allegiances from the next season. The seven-time world champion made the shock announcement before the start of the 2024 season. He will kickstart a new chapter in his storied career when he dons the iconic red overalls of the Italian carmaker at 40. "I can't imagine him in red. I don't think it suits him. But I think that picture is going to be interesting," said Wolff. The Mercedes boss also took a cheeky dig at Hamilton and told him that he would only be seeing the 'rear wing' of Silver Arrows car, come the next season. "And then I told him [Hamilton], you've got to really picture our rear wing because that’s the perspective you're going to have." Although Mercedes is yet to announce a replacement for Hamilton, Wolff has shown no hesitation in roping Max Verstappen if he were to leave Red Bull due to the ongoing fiasco, involving Christian Horner. Also read | Formula One: Mercedes team principal's wife files criminal complaint against FIA Wolff clears slate with Max and Jos Wolff also revealed that he had cleared the air with Max as well as his dad, Jos Verstappen, over the 2021 season where the Dutch driver narrowly won his maiden championship. “It’s unfortunate that there were those moments of rivalry, but maybe they would have acted that way too if they were in my position and I will always defend my own driver," said Wolff. “Looking back on that whole year [2021], it is clear that I made some mistakes. In the way I dealt with some things. I cannot reverse that. If you look at Max’s last two years, there is no-one even close to him. As a driver, you also can’t do it without a good car, engine and team around you. Max is in that position now," he added. Also read | Lewis Hamilton Ferrari transfer: Ex-British driver Martin Brundle compares shock move with Michael Schumacher Speaking about Wolff's interest, Verstappen said it was "nice to hear that"but it didn't have any bearing on his decision to leave Red Bull, at least at this stage. "Toto and I, we had our little moments but that's normal between two teams battling for the championship. But the respect has always been there. From my side, it doesn't change anything." (With inputs from agencies)

'I don't think it suits him': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari move

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife filed a criminal complaint against the FIA&nbsp;for comments made by the top governing body of Formula One. In December 2023 Formula One’s governing body launched and then dropped an investigation into F1 Academy where it made comments on the duo. Susie Wolff, the wife of Toto, filed a criminal complaint against the FIA on March 4 and claimed there has been no transparency in the investigation laid by the top body.

<h2>Susie Wolff files criminal complaint</h2>

"I can confirm that I personally filed a criminal complaint in the French courts on the 4th of March in relation to the statements made about me by the FIA last December," Wolff said on Instagram.

"There has still not been any transparency or accountability in relation to the conduct of the FIA and its personnel in this matter. I feel more than ever it is important to stand up, call out improper behaviour and make sure people are held to account.

"Whilst some may think silence absolves them from responsibility - it does not."

<h2>What is the matter?</h2>

According to a report in Business F1 magazine, Susie, the current managing director of F1 Academy had provided confidential information to her husband and Mercedes team principal Toto. The report further claimed that the Mercedes boss was benefiting from information shared by his wife.

A couple of days later FIA announced its compliance department was "looking into" the allegations, the federation said it "can confirm that there is no ongoing investigation in terms of ethical or disciplinary inquiries involving any individual.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-rcb-ipl-2024-head-to-head-stats-playing-xis-pitch-report-live-streaming-details-more-702464">CSK vs RCB- IPL 2024: Head-to-head, stats, playing XIs, pitch report, live streaming details &amp; more</a>

<h2>Turbulent last few months in F1</h2>

The probe arose in December and had the F1 world in shock with a series of other controversies during the last few months. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner was being investigated for alleged inappropriate behaviour after a complaint made by a female employee of the team. The grievance was dismissed on 28 February just before the season-opening Bahrain GP.

Horner always denied any wrongdoing but there was to be no respite. A day later an email was leaked to the FIA, F1, the teams and the media that purported to contain messages between Horner and the complainant and since then the storm has only grown.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife filed a criminal complaint against the FIA for comments made by the top governing body of Formula One. In December 2023 Formula One’s governing body launched and then dropped an investigation into F1 Academy where it made comments on the duo.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife filed a criminal complaint against the FIA for comments made by the top governing body of Formula One. In December 2023 Formula One’s governing body launched and then dropped an investigation into F1 Academy where it made comments on the duo. Susie Wolff, the wife of Toto, filed a criminal complaint against the FIA on March 4 and claimed there has been no transparency in the investigation laid by the top body. Susie Wolff files criminal complaint "I can confirm that I personally filed a criminal complaint in the French courts on the 4th of March in relation to the statements made about me by the FIA last December," Wolff said on Instagram. "There has still not been any transparency or accountability in relation to the conduct of the FIA and its personnel in this matter. I feel more than ever it is important to stand up, call out improper behaviour and make sure people are held to account. "Whilst some may think silence absolves them from responsibility - it does not." What is the matter? According to a report in Business F1 magazine, Susie, the current managing director of F1 Academy had provided confidential information to her husband and Mercedes team principal Toto. The report further claimed that the Mercedes boss was benefiting from information shared by his wife. A couple of days later FIA announced its compliance department was "looking into" the allegations, the federation said it "can confirm that there is no ongoing investigation in terms of ethical or disciplinary inquiries involving any individual.” ALSO READ | CSK vs RCB- IPL 2024: Head-to-head, stats, playing XIs, pitch report, live streaming details & more Turbulent last few months in F1 The probe arose in December and had the F1 world in shock with a series of other controversies during the last few months. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner was being investigated for alleged inappropriate behaviour after a complaint made by a female employee of the team. The grievance was dismissed on 28 February just before the season-opening Bahrain GP. Horner always denied any wrongdoing but there was to be no respite. A day later an email was leaked to the FIA, F1, the teams and the media that purported to contain messages between Horner and the complainant and since then the storm has only grown.

Formula One: Mercedes team principal's wife files criminal complaint against FIA

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has backed&nbsp;Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife Susie Wolff after she filed a criminal&nbsp;complaint against the FIA - Formula One's governing body.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, Hamilton was quizzed about the situation with the Briton saying he was 'incredibly proud' of Susie for coming ahead and batting for transparency within the sport.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Firstly, I'm incredibly proud of Susie. I think she's so brave and she stands for such great values," said Hamilton.&nbsp;

"She's such a leader, and in a world where often people are silenced, for her to be standing up sends such a great message. And I love that she's taken it out of this world - fighting it from outside because there is a real lack of accountability here within this sport, within the FIA, things that are happening behind closed doors," he added.&nbsp;

Hamilton hoped that the stance taken by her could bring changes in the setup of FIA.&nbsp;

"There is no transparency, there is clearly no accountability, and we need that. I think the fans need&nbsp;that. How can you trust the sport and what is happening here if you don't have that?" said Hamilton.&nbsp;

"So hopefully this stand that she's taken now will create change, will have a positive impact, and especially for women."

<h2>Why did Wolff file the complaint?&nbsp;</h2>

Wolff on Wednesday (Mar 20) filed a complaint in a French court against FIA after the top body launched and later dropped an investigation in December 2023 over an alleged breach of confidentiality.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I can confirm that I personally filed a criminal complaint in the French courts on the 4th of March in relation to the statements made about me by the FIA last December," Wolff wrote on Instagram.

The probe was initiated after a report in&nbsp;Business F1 magazine claimed that Susie, the&nbsp;current managing director of F1 Academy had provided confidential information to her husband and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-mercedes-team-principals-wife-files-criminal-complaint-against-fia-702555">Also read |&nbsp;Formula One: Mercedes team principal's wife files criminal complaint against FIA</a>

The report further claimed that the Mercedes boss was benefiting from information shared by his wife. A couple of days later FIA announced its compliance department was "looking into" the allegations.&nbsp;

However, after Wolff and Mercedes denied the allegations while other nine F1 teams denied having made the complaint, FIA dropped the investigation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has backed Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife Susie Wolff after she filed a criminal complaint against the FIA - Formula One's governing body.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has backed Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s wife Susie Wolff after she filed a criminal complaint against the FIA - Formula One's governing body. Ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, Hamilton was quizzed about the situation with the Briton saying he was 'incredibly proud' of Susie for coming ahead and batting for transparency within the sport. "Firstly, I'm incredibly proud of Susie. I think she's so brave and she stands for such great values," said Hamilton. "She's such a leader, and in a world where often people are silenced, for her to be standing up sends such a great message. And I love that she's taken it out of this world - fighting it from outside because there is a real lack of accountability here within this sport, within the FIA, things that are happening behind closed doors," he added. Hamilton hoped that the stance taken by her could bring changes in the setup of FIA. "There is no transparency, there is clearly no accountability, and we need that. I think the fans need that. How can you trust the sport and what is happening here if you don't have that?" said Hamilton. "So hopefully this stand that she's taken now will create change, will have a positive impact, and especially for women." Why did Wolff file the complaint? Wolff on Wednesday (Mar 20) filed a complaint in a French court against FIA after the top body launched and later dropped an investigation in December 2023 over an alleged breach of confidentiality. "I can confirm that I personally filed a criminal complaint in the French courts on the 4th of March in relation to the statements made about me by the FIA last December," Wolff wrote on Instagram. The probe was initiated after a report in Business F1 magazine claimed that Susie, the current managing director of F1 Academy had provided confidential information to her husband and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff. Also read | Formula One: Mercedes team principal's wife files criminal complaint against FIA The report further claimed that the Mercedes boss was benefiting from information shared by his wife. A couple of days later FIA announced its compliance department was "looking into" the allegations. However, after Wolff and Mercedes denied the allegations while other nine F1 teams denied having made the complaint, FIA dropped the investigation. (With inputs from agencies)

'I'm incredibly proud': Lewis Hamilton backs Susie Wolff's complaint against FIA

Lewis Hamilton said&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;faced a pivotal moment and needed to show its values amid controversies away from the track involving leading personalities in the paddock and governing body. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has been in the spotlight after a drawn-out investigation into misconduct allegations by a female employee showed clear divisions behind the scenes.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the governing FIA, has been accused by a whistleblower of attempted interference in a race and allegedly seeking to deny certification of the Las Vegas street circuit that debuted last November. "As someone&nbsp;who loves the sport, it's definitely disappointing to see what's going on right now," the seven times world champion told reporters at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah. "It doesn't look good from the outside world, the outside looking in. I think it's a really, really important time for the sport to really show and stick to its values, holding ourselves accountable for our actions.

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"And it's a really pivotal moment I think for the sport, in terms of what we project to the world and how it's handled. And it's not been handled very well to this point. "I hope it's not a year that continues to go on with this. But it highlights some of the issues we also have within the sport."

Hamilton also recalled from personal experience what it was like to be at a team whose leader's position was being challenged. "I remember kind of when we were losing (McLaren boss) Ron (Dennis), for example, and the things that Ron was going through, and the steps that we had to take, it affected all of us," he said. "A leader is super-important because they set the tone, they make sure the team sticks to the core values of what the sport is about, and integrity."

Lewis Hamilton said Formula One faced a pivotal moment and needed to show its values amid controversies away from the track involving leading personalities in the paddock and governing body.

Lewis Hamilton said Formula One faced a pivotal moment and needed to show its values amid controversies away from the track involving leading personalities in the paddock and governing body. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has been in the spotlight after a drawn-out investigation into misconduct allegations by a female employee showed clear divisions behind the scenes. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the governing FIA, has been accused by a whistleblower of attempted interference in a race and allegedly seeking to deny certification of the Las Vegas street circuit that debuted last November. "As someone who loves the sport, it's definitely disappointing to see what's going on right now," the seven times world champion told reporters at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah. "It doesn't look good from the outside world, the outside looking in. I think it's a really, really important time for the sport to really show and stick to its values, holding ourselves accountable for our actions. Also read: LIV Golf gives up bid for world ranking points "And it's a really pivotal moment I think for the sport, in terms of what we project to the world and how it's handled. And it's not been handled very well to this point. "I hope it's not a year that continues to go on with this. But it highlights some of the issues we also have within the sport." Hamilton also recalled from personal experience what it was like to be at a team whose leader's position was being challenged. "I remember kind of when we were losing (McLaren boss) Ron (Dennis), for example, and the things that Ron was going through, and the steps that we had to take, it affected all of us," he said. "A leader is super-important because they set the tone, they make sure the team sticks to the core values of what the sport is about, and integrity."

Important for F1 to show its values: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on recent controversies

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen&nbsp;and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services. The Great Britain racing driver feels his move from Mercedes has certainly shown that 'anything is possible'.

Speaking to the reporters, in Jeddah, ahead of the upcoming Saudi GP, Hamilton said, "My move has shown that anything's possible, and it's going to be a really interesting next six months or so. He further opined, "I don't have an extra scoop. I know that... I'm sure Max is on the list, but I'm pretty sure he's tied up, and also, I couldn't see why you would leave a car that is that good."

It is to be noted that the Red Bull driver Verstappen won 19 of 22 races last year and is on his way to a third successive title in Saudi. He also won the season-opener in Bahrain recently. The Dutch driver has a contract at Red Bull until 2028.

It is&nbsp;believed that his contact includes release clauses linked to other key members of the team. At present, Verstappen&nbsp;clearly stated that he is content at Red Bull. Nonetheless, he was in the news lately after his father Jos Verstappen spoke against team boss Christian Horner, who was under investigation for inappropriate behaviour with a female employee (on Thursday, the team suspended the woman in question).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/important-for-f1-to-show-its-values-seven-time-world-champion-lewis-hamilton-on-recent-controversies-697505">Important for F1 to show its values: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on recent controversies</a>

While Verstappen&nbsp;agreed that Hamilton's move, to Ferrari,&nbsp;has changed the landscape, however, he ruled out any change whatsoever shortly.

"Nobody would have seen that Lewis would move to Ferrari," Verstappen&nbsp;told the press on Thursday. "You never know in general life what happens, or comes to you, or happens around you or what might influence you. So you can never say 100% that that is how it is going to be... but I am very relaxed and very happy at the team and the performance is there, so there is no reason to leave," he added.

In addition, Verstappen&nbsp;reiterated support for his father -- for his remarks against Horner -- and said they were a team. "It’s me, my dad and (manager) Raymond (Vermeulen) altogether. And that will always be like that," the champion concluded.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a huge claim ahead of the forthcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which gets underway on March 9. Hamilton spoke about his arch-rival Max Verstappen and feels that there is a possibility that Mercedes, his current team whom he will leave for Ferrari in 2025, can try and acquire Verstappen's services. The Great Britain racing driver feels his move from Mercedes has certainly shown that 'anything is possible'. Speaking to the reporters, in Jeddah, ahead of the upcoming Saudi GP, Hamilton said, "My move has shown that anything's possible, and it's going to be a really interesting next six months or so. He further opined, "I don't have an extra scoop. I know that... I'm sure Max is on the list, but I'm pretty sure he's tied up, and also, I couldn't see why you would leave a car that is that good." It is to be noted that the Red Bull driver Verstappen won 19 of 22 races last year and is on his way to a third successive title in Saudi. He also won the season-opener in Bahrain recently. The Dutch driver has a contract at Red Bull until 2028. It is believed that his contact includes release clauses linked to other key members of the team. At present, Verstappen clearly stated that he is content at Red Bull. Nonetheless, he was in the news lately after his father Jos Verstappen spoke against team boss Christian Horner, who was under investigation for inappropriate behaviour with a female employee (on Thursday, the team suspended the woman in question). Also read: Important for F1 to show its values: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on recent controversies While Verstappen agreed that Hamilton's move, to Ferrari, has changed the landscape, however, he ruled out any change whatsoever shortly. "Nobody would have seen that Lewis would move to Ferrari," Verstappen told the press on Thursday. "You never know in general life what happens, or comes to you, or happens around you or what might influence you. So you can never say 100% that that is how it is going to be... but I am very relaxed and very happy at the team and the performance is there, so there is no reason to leave," he added. In addition, Verstappen reiterated support for his father -- for his remarks against Horner -- and said they were a team. "It’s me, my dad and (manager) Raymond (Vermeulen) altogether. And that will always be like that," the champion concluded.

Anything is possible: Lewis Hamilton makes BIG claim, does not rule out Max Verstappen's move to Mercedes

Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;admitted it felt "emotional" and "surreal" to take part in the final Formula One car launch of his Mercedes career on Wednesday. Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One world champion, will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season in a stunning switch to Ferrari. The 39-year-old had signed a new two-year deal with Mercedes worth £100 million ($126 million) in August. But&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;recently activated a break clause to seal his move to the Italian team after admitting the prospect of "driving in Ferrari red" was too hard to turn down.

Speaking at the Mercedes launch for the first time since his blockbuster move was confirmed,&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said: "The last few weeks have obviously been emotional and it is very surreal to be here. "The focus through the whole of winter training is getting the team back to where we once were. We have had these difficult couple of years which have been really grounding for us. It has helped us regroup and really look at things."

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, standing alongside&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;at the launch, added: "It has been a very busy winter. It will be our last season with Lewis so we are keen on bringing a quick car." Hamilton, who joined Mercedes from McLaren in 2013, won six of his record-equalling seven world championships with the Silver Arrows. But the British driver has struggled to match Red Bull rival Max Verstappen since he missed out on what would have been a record eighth world championship in 2021 in controversial fashion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-signing-lewis-hamilton-a-huge-opportunity-for-ferrari-reckons-team-boss-fred-vasseu-690251">Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a 'huge opportunity' for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseu</a>

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His long goodbye to Mercedes made for an awkward final car launch at the team's Northamptonshire base.&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;answered just three questions from the Mercedes moderator during the brief nine-minute event. "I came here in 2013 so 11 years with the team and now I am starting my 12th," he said. "It is such a privilege to work with a group of people where you see the work they do over the winter and you see a car come together at the beginning of the year and it is the most exciting part of the season."

Hamilton, without a win in two years, and team-mate George Russell, will get their first taste of this season's Mercedes car during a shakedown test at rain-lashed Silverstone on Wednesday.

"We have to be diligent, maximise practice and even one lap, George and I might get in the rain today will give us a feeling of what is to come,"&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said.

Lewis Hamilton admitted it felt "emotional" and "surreal" to take part in the final Formula One car launch of his Mercedes career on Wednesday. Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One world champion, will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season in a stunning switch to Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton admitted it felt "emotional" and "surreal" to take part in the final Formula One car launch of his Mercedes career on Wednesday. Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One world champion, will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season in a stunning switch to Ferrari. The 39-year-old had signed a new two-year deal with Mercedes worth £100 million ($126 million) in August. But Hamilton recently activated a break clause to seal his move to the Italian team after admitting the prospect of "driving in Ferrari red" was too hard to turn down. Speaking at the Mercedes launch for the first time since his blockbuster move was confirmed, Hamilton said: "The last few weeks have obviously been emotional and it is very surreal to be here. "The focus through the whole of winter training is getting the team back to where we once were. We have had these difficult couple of years which have been really grounding for us. It has helped us regroup and really look at things." Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, standing alongside Hamilton at the launch, added: "It has been a very busy winter. It will be our last season with Lewis so we are keen on bringing a quick car." Hamilton, who joined Mercedes from McLaren in 2013, won six of his record-equalling seven world championships with the Silver Arrows. But the British driver has struggled to match Red Bull rival Max Verstappen since he missed out on what would have been a record eighth world championship in 2021 in controversial fashion. Also read: Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a 'huge opportunity' for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseu F1 2024. Here we come 👊 pic.twitter.com/vvYL8BAx6P — Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) February 14, 2024 × His long goodbye to Mercedes made for an awkward final car launch at the team's Northamptonshire base. Hamilton answered just three questions from the Mercedes moderator during the brief nine-minute event. "I came here in 2013 so 11 years with the team and now I am starting my 12th," he said. "It is such a privilege to work with a group of people where you see the work they do over the winter and you see a car come together at the beginning of the year and it is the most exciting part of the season." Hamilton, without a win in two years, and team-mate George Russell, will get their first taste of this season's Mercedes car during a shakedown test at rain-lashed Silverstone on Wednesday. "We have to be diligent, maximise practice and even one lap, George and I might get in the rain today will give us a feeling of what is to come," Hamilton said.

F1: ‘Emotional’ Lewis Hamilton unveils Mercedes 2024 car

In early February, Lewis Hamilton confirmed that he will be leaving Mercedes and is set to join Ferrari in 2025. In the recent past, there have been speculations regarding Hamilton being in talks with Ferrari for a move. However, nothing came out of it but this time around, the move got confirmed after&nbsp;Hamilton resorted to an escape clause in his contract with Mercedes to leave the team in 2025 for Ferrari. Now, Ferrari team boss Fred&nbsp;Vasseur reacted on the signing of Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion, and feels 'it is a huge opportunity' for the team going ahead.&nbsp;

Talking to the reporters on Tuesday (Feb 13), Vasseur said, "A huge opportunity for the team, for sure. We are sure that he will bring us a decent step for the future and it will be a good challenge for everybody." Hamilton's move to Ferrari also confirmed&nbsp;that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari&nbsp;at the end of the 2024 season. Vasseur also reacted to Sainz's departure.

Vasseur admitted that it was a tough call for him to tell Sainz that they had signed Hamilton.&nbsp;"As you can imagine it was not the easiest call of my life," he recalled his&nbsp;conversation with Sainz. "One of the most difficult was the one with Toto," Vasseur added.

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<h2>'I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family'</h2>

Early this month, Hamilton confirmed his departure from Mercedes and said&nbsp;in a statement shared from his current team, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and 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."

Hamilton signed a two-year contract with Mercedes in last August, however, the veteran driver used a release option that could be activated to allow him an early exit. He has won six world championships with Mercedes. The 39-year-old&nbsp;will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand,&nbsp;Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for 2025.

In early February, Lewis Hamilton confirmed that he will be leaving Mercedes and is set to join Ferrari in 2025. In the recent past, there have been speculations regarding Hamilton being in talks with Ferrari for a move.

In early February, Lewis Hamilton confirmed that he will be leaving Mercedes and is set to join Ferrari in 2025. In the recent past, there have been speculations regarding Hamilton being in talks with Ferrari for a move. However, nothing came out of it but this time around, the move got confirmed after Hamilton resorted to an escape clause in his contract with Mercedes to leave the team in 2025 for Ferrari. Now, Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur reacted on the signing of Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion, and feels 'it is a huge opportunity' for the team going ahead. Talking to the reporters on Tuesday (Feb 13), Vasseur said, "A huge opportunity for the team, for sure. We are sure that he will bring us a decent step for the future and it will be a good challenge for everybody." Hamilton's move to Ferrari also confirmed that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari at the end of the 2024 season. Vasseur also reacted to Sainz's departure. Vasseur admitted that it was a tough call for him to tell Sainz that they had signed Hamilton. "As you can imagine it was not the easiest call of my life," he recalled his conversation with Sainz. "One of the most difficult was the one with Toto," Vasseur added. Also read: Formula One: 'One of the hardest decisions' - Lewis Hamilton on leaving Mercedes and joining Ferrari 'I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family' Early this month, Hamilton confirmed his departure from Mercedes and said in a statement shared from his current team, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and 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." Hamilton signed a two-year contract with Mercedes in last August, however, the veteran driver used a release option that could be activated to allow him an early exit. He has won six world championships with Mercedes. The 39-year-old will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand, Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for 2025.

Formula One: Signing Lewis Hamilton a ‘huge opportunity’ for Ferrari, reckons team boss Fred Vasseur

Aston Martin star and former Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso has opened up on the controversial Lewis Hamilton switch after the British Driver opted to leave Mercedes. Alonso, who was Ferrari’s prime driver between 2010 and 2014, hopes Hamilton enjoys his stint&nbsp;at Ferrari after it was announced on Feb 1 that he will switch to the Italian giants from the 2025 Formula One season. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari from Mercedes has come as a big surprise to many because of his legendary status with the latter where he won four consecutive World Championships.

<h2>Alonso opines on Hamilton switch</h2>

"But nothing really to comment on, I hope he enjoys the experience. It's a very special team but it is more special when you win.

"That's the thing, you need to win, and it's a few years already that they have a very fast car and they were fighting for big things and maybe Lewis can bring that extra [ingredient] to fight for the championship.

"The car is there. At the end of last year even with a very dominating Red Bull car, Ferrari were still average,” added the Spaniard.

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Alonso who won the F1 titles in 2005 and 2006, added that winning was the primary reason Hamilton could have made the switch. Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will materialise in 2025 and he will continue to don the badges of Mercedes&nbsp;this year. The Formula One legend has not won the F1 title since 2020 and will target glory in his farewell season with Mercedes. He has been outshined by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in recent seasons, including a close finish in 2021 when he lost the world title on the final lap.

Hamilton finished third in the 2023 F1 season with 234 points, closing behind the Red Bull duo of Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Hamilton has not won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and will look to end that drought in the coming season of Formula One.

The latest season of&nbsp;F1 gets underway on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Aston Martin star and former Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso has opened up on the controversial Lewis Hamilton switch after the British Driver opted to leave Mercedes.

Aston Martin star and former Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso has opened up on the controversial Lewis Hamilton switch after the British Driver opted to leave Mercedes. Alonso, who was Ferrari’s prime driver between 2010 and 2014, hopes Hamilton enjoys his stint at Ferrari after it was announced on Feb 1 that he will switch to the Italian giants from the 2025 Formula One season. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari from Mercedes has come as a big surprise to many because of his legendary status with the latter where he won four consecutive World Championships. Alonso opines on Hamilton switch "But nothing really to comment on, I hope he enjoys the experience. It's a very special team but it is more special when you win. "That's the thing, you need to win, and it's a few years already that they have a very fast car and they were fighting for big things and maybe Lewis can bring that extra [ingredient] to fight for the championship. "The car is there. At the end of last year even with a very dominating Red Bull car, Ferrari were still average,” added the Spaniard. ALSO READ | Blow to Multan Sultans as Reece Topley ruled out of PSL 2024; IPL participation under dark cloud Alonso who won the F1 titles in 2005 and 2006, added that winning was the primary reason Hamilton could have made the switch. Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will materialise in 2025 and he will continue to don the badges of Mercedes this year. The Formula One legend has not won the F1 title since 2020 and will target glory in his farewell season with Mercedes. He has been outshined by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in recent seasons, including a close finish in 2021 when he lost the world title on the final lap. Hamilton finished third in the 2023 F1 season with 234 points, closing behind the Red Bull duo of Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Hamilton has not won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and will look to end that drought in the coming season of Formula One. The latest season of F1 gets underway on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Formula One: Fernando Alonso reacts to Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari switch, says 'I hope he enjoys the experience'

Alpine's Pierre Gasly said he knew about Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton's talks with Ferrari and the announcement of the Briton's move from Mercedes to the Italian Formula One team for 2025 was not a surprise to him. Speaking to reporters at the launch of the Renault-owned team's 2024 car on Wednesday, Frenchman Gasly said it had been a well-kept secret. The move was announced last Thursday.

"I was aware of some talks with Ferrari. Ultimately he (Hamilton) is towards the end of his career, so it was either now or never," said Gasly, who celebrated his 28th birthday on Wednesday. "I think it was kept secret for quite a long time. I wish him the best."

Hamilton, 39, will replace Spaniard Carlos Sainz alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. Gasly and Leclerc are old friends and the pair are online gamers with&nbsp;Hamilton. In 2020, the Frenchman revealed in an ESPN podcast that he regularly exchanged messages and questions with&nbsp;Hamilton, seeking the Briton's advice.

"What's fair in F1?," he replied on Wednesday when asked if the situation had been fair to Sainz. "Carlos is a great driver, Lewis is a fantastic driver, the best of all time," Gasly said. "There was an opportunity on both sides. I think Ferrari and Lewis took it together. It leaves Carlos in a more tricky situation and it's not easy."

A winner with Toro Rosso at Monza in 2020, Gasly finished third last season at the Dutch Grand Prix for his first podium with Alpine. The new car has yet to run but Alpine described it as bold and aggressive.

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Gasly, who joined the team last year in what he admitted was a disappointing season, said it might be a bit harder in the opening races but there would be plenty of potential to unlock later in the year. "You got to take risks at some point if you want to get bigger rewards. So that's the strategy we decided to go for," he added.

Gasly said he now felt in the best shape he'd ever been and a "completely different place" compared to last year, knew everyone in the team and the way of working. "I'm feeling a lot better than a year ago," he said.

Alpine finished sixth overall last season, a drop from fourth in 2022.

The season starts in Bahrain on March 2.

Alpine's Pierre Gasly said he knew about Lewis Hamilton's talks with Ferrari and the announcement of the Briton's move from Mercedes to the Italian Formula One team for 2025 was not a surprise to him.

Alpine's Pierre Gasly said he knew about Lewis Hamilton's talks with Ferrari and the announcement of the Briton's move from Mercedes to the Italian Formula One team for 2025 was not a surprise to him. Speaking to reporters at the launch of the Renault-owned team's 2024 car on Wednesday, Frenchman Gasly said it had been a well-kept secret. The move was announced last Thursday. "I was aware of some talks with Ferrari. Ultimately he (Hamilton) is towards the end of his career, so it was either now or never," said Gasly, who celebrated his 28th birthday on Wednesday. "I think it was kept secret for quite a long time. I wish him the best." Hamilton, 39, will replace Spaniard Carlos Sainz alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. Gasly and Leclerc are old friends and the pair are online gamers with Hamilton. In 2020, the Frenchman revealed in an ESPN podcast that he regularly exchanged messages and questions with Hamilton, seeking the Briton's advice. "What's fair in F1?," he replied on Wednesday when asked if the situation had been fair to Sainz. "Carlos is a great driver, Lewis is a fantastic driver, the best of all time," Gasly said. "There was an opportunity on both sides. I think Ferrari and Lewis took it together. It leaves Carlos in a more tricky situation and it's not easy." A winner with Toro Rosso at Monza in 2020, Gasly finished third last season at the Dutch Grand Prix for his first podium with Alpine. The new car has yet to run but Alpine described it as bold and aggressive. Also read: Golf: U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark says he chose ‘legacy’ over LIV Gasly, who joined the team last year in what he admitted was a disappointing season, said it might be a bit harder in the opening races but there would be plenty of potential to unlock later in the year. "You got to take risks at some point if you want to get bigger rewards. So that's the strategy we decided to go for," he added. Gasly said he now felt in the best shape he'd ever been and a "completely different place" compared to last year, knew everyone in the team and the way of working. "I'm feeling a lot better than a year ago," he said. Alpine finished sixth overall last season, a drop from fourth in 2022. The season starts in Bahrain on March 2.

Formula One: Alpine's Pierre Gasly knew about Lewis Hamilton talks with Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton’s sensational switch to Ferrari from Mercedes in 2025 has left everyone with surprise as the British record champion will head into enemy territory after the completion of the upcoming season. The announcement made on Thursday (Feb 1) will see the seven-time Formula One champion head to enemy territory of Ferrari leaving former Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas surprised. According to Bottas, he was shocked by Hamilton’s switch to the red brand of F1 and thought it would never happen.

<h2>Bottas surprised by Hamilton’s switch</h2>

"I never thought it would happen," Bottas said while speaking in London for his Sauber-run Stake F1 team on Monday night.

"I thought in my mind he would stay at Mercedes but that’s Formula One. Things happen and I think that it’s good for him because he’s obviously made the decision and it’s a fresh, new start."

"It’s a big move in F1 which is going to create some movement as well on the drivers’ market for sure," the Bottas added.&nbsp;

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Bottas and Hamilton were teammates at Mercedes for four years between 2017 and 2021 and shared a successful stint where the British driver clinched four consecutive Formula One titles including his record-equalling seventh title.

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Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will materialise in 2025 and he will continue to don the badges of Mercedes for his last season. The Formula One legend has not won the F1 title since 2020 and will target glory in his farewell season with Mercedes. He has been outpowered by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in recent seasons including a close finish in 2021 when he lost the world title on the final lap.

Hamilton finished third in the 2023 F1 season with 234 points finishing behind the Red Bull duo of Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Hamilton has not won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and will look to end that drought in the coming season of Formula One.

The latest season of the F1 gets underway on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton’s sensational switch to Ferrari from Mercedes in 2025 has left everyone with surprise as the British record champion will head into enemy territory after the completion of the upcoming season.

Lewis Hamilton’s sensational switch to Ferrari from Mercedes in 2025 has left everyone with surprise as the British record champion will head into enemy territory after the completion of the upcoming season. The announcement made on Thursday (Feb 1) will see the seven-time Formula One champion head to enemy territory of Ferrari leaving former Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas surprised. According to Bottas, he was shocked by Hamilton’s switch to the red brand of F1 and thought it would never happen. Bottas surprised by Hamilton’s switch "I never thought it would happen," Bottas said while speaking in London for his Sauber-run Stake F1 team on Monday night. "I thought in my mind he would stay at Mercedes but that’s Formula One. Things happen and I think that it’s good for him because he’s obviously made the decision and it’s a fresh, new start." "It’s a big move in F1 which is going to create some movement as well on the drivers’ market for sure," the Bottas added. × Bottas and Hamilton were teammates at Mercedes for four years between 2017 and 2021 and shared a successful stint where the British driver clinched four consecutive Formula One titles including his record-equalling seventh title. ALSO READ | Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari will materialise in 2025 and he will continue to don the badges of Mercedes for his last season. The Formula One legend has not won the F1 title since 2020 and will target glory in his farewell season with Mercedes. He has been outpowered by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in recent seasons including a close finish in 2021 when he lost the world title on the final lap. Hamilton finished third in the 2023 F1 season with 234 points finishing behind the Red Bull duo of Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Hamilton has not won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and will look to end that drought in the coming season of Formula One. The latest season of the F1 gets underway on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Formula One: I never thought it would happen - Valtteri Bottas opines on Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari switch

On Thursday (Feb 1), reports started doing the rounds which claimed that Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, who he has been associated with since the age of 13, to join Ferrari in 2025. Now, it has been confirmed that the British driver is parting ways with Mercedes and will become a part of Ferrari from next year onwards.&nbsp;Notably, he&nbsp;signed a two-year contract with Mercedes last August, however,&nbsp;there was a release option that could be activated to allow him an early release.

Hamilton, thus, used the option to join Ferrari. He will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season. Both parties reacted to the development, on social media platform X, on Friday (Feb 2).&nbsp;

"The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last August and this season will therefore be his last driving for the Silver Arrows."

"The news brings an end to what is currently a 17-year long relationship in F1 with Mercedes-Benz and an 11-year long partnership with the works team," read the statement from Mercedes.

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Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last year.
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/MercedesAMGF1/status/1753130989054763178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract," read the statement.

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Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract. <a href="https://t.co/moEMqUgzXH">pic.twitter.com/moEMqUgzXH</a>
— Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScuderiaFerrari/status/1753133900925129140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Hamilton will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand,&nbsp;Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for the 2025 season.

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<h2>'Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13'</h2>

Hamilton reacted to his departure from Mercedes and said&nbsp;in the Mercedes statement, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and 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."

The seven-time world champion's decision to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari also confirms that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari&nbsp;at the end of the 2024 season.

On Thursday (Feb 1), reports started doing the rounds which claimed that Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, who he has been associated with since the age of 13, to join Ferrari in 2025.

On Thursday (Feb 1), reports started doing the rounds which claimed that Lewis Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes, who he has been associated with since the age of 13, to join Ferrari in 2025. Now, it has been confirmed that the British driver is parting ways with Mercedes and will become a part of Ferrari from next year onwards. Notably, he signed a two-year contract with Mercedes last August, however, there was a release option that could be activated to allow him an early release. Hamilton, thus, used the option to join Ferrari. He will leave Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season. Both parties reacted to the development, on social media platform X, on Friday (Feb 2). "The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last August and this season will therefore be his last driving for the Silver Arrows." "The news brings an end to what is currently a 17-year long relationship in F1 with Mercedes-Benz and an 11-year long partnership with the works team," read the statement from Mercedes. Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and Lewis Hamilton will part ways at the end of the 2024 season. Lewis has activated a release option in the contract announced last year. — Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) February 1, 2024 × "Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract," read the statement. Team Statement Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract. pic.twitter.com/moEMqUgzXH — Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) February 1, 2024 × Hamilton will race alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. On the other hand, Mercedes are on the hunt for a new driver for the 2025 season. Also read: PL: Kobbie Mainoo stars in dramatic Man United win at Wolves, West Ham fight back to draw with Bournemouth 'Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13' Hamilton reacted to his departure from Mercedes and said in the Mercedes statement, "I have had an amazing 11 years with this team and I'm so proud of what we have achieved together. Mercedes has been part of my life since I was 13 years old. It's a place where I have grown up, so making the decision to leave was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. But the time is right for me to take this step and I'm excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto for his friendship and leadership and 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." The seven-time world champion's decision to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari also confirms that Carlos Sainz will exit Ferrari at the end of the 2024 season.

Formula One: 'One of the hardest decisions' - Lewis Hamilton on leaving Mercedes and joining Ferrari

Former British Formula One driver Martin Brundle has compared Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari as a "Schumacher-esque" after the legendary driver stole the spotlight of the sporting world on Thursday (Feb 1). Hamilton, a living legend of the sport will race for Ferrari from the 2025 Formula One season and will wave goodbye to Mercedes after more than a decade. The controversial move was made public on Thursday with many comparing his upcoming stint with Michael Schumacher, who enjoyed grand success at the Ferrari.

<h2>Hamilton’s comparisons with Schumacher</h2>

"We've talked to him about it for years, interviews [along the lines of] 'wouldn't you fancy doing a Michael Schumacher and joining Ferrari to make them champions?'," Brundle told Sky Sports in an exclusive conversation.

"He's always said 'I've been with Mercedes, even when I was at McLaren I had Mercedes engines, they're my team and my manufacturer for life'.

"What a story - Lewis Hamilton in a Ferrari."

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Hamilton like Schumacher has won seven World Championships and is the most successful driver in the history of the sport. He has 104 F1 poles (most) and an astonishing win record with 103 races. He remains the only racer to have crossed the 100-win tally on the F1 circuit.

It is interesting to note that Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes last year for 2024 and 2025. Now, it appears that the second season may have only been an option with him set to move away.

Thus, Hamilton's move to Ferrari indicates that he will have an escape clause that means if he signs for Ferrari, he can be a part of it from 2025. While an official confirmation is expected anytime soon, it is a body blow, especially for Mercedes who worked hard to extend the veteran star's stay last year. As of now, it is unclear what caused such a massive switch as many expected Hamilton to see out his F1 career at Mercedes.

Former British Formula One driver Martin Brundle has compared Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari as a "Schumacher-esque" after the legendary driver stole the spotlight of the sporting world on Thursday (Feb 1).

Former British Formula One driver Martin Brundle has compared Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari as a "Schumacher-esque" after the legendary driver stole the spotlight of the sporting world on Thursday (Feb 1). Hamilton, a living legend of the sport will race for Ferrari from the 2025 Formula One season and will wave goodbye to Mercedes after more than a decade. The controversial move was made public on Thursday with many comparing his upcoming stint with Michael Schumacher, who enjoyed grand success at the Ferrari. Hamilton’s comparisons with Schumacher "We've talked to him about it for years, interviews [along the lines of] 'wouldn't you fancy doing a Michael Schumacher and joining Ferrari to make them champions?'," Brundle told Sky Sports in an exclusive conversation. "He's always said 'I've been with Mercedes, even when I was at McLaren I had Mercedes engines, they're my team and my manufacturer for life'. "What a story - Lewis Hamilton in a Ferrari." ALSO READ | Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start Hamilton like Schumacher has won seven World Championships and is the most successful driver in the history of the sport. He has 104 F1 poles (most) and an astonishing win record with 103 races. He remains the only racer to have crossed the 100-win tally on the F1 circuit. It is interesting to note that Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes last year for 2024 and 2025. Now, it appears that the second season may have only been an option with him set to move away. Thus, Hamilton's move to Ferrari indicates that he will have an escape clause that means if he signs for Ferrari, he can be a part of it from 2025. While an official confirmation is expected anytime soon, it is a body blow, especially for Mercedes who worked hard to extend the veteran star's stay last year. As of now, it is unclear what caused such a massive switch as many expected Hamilton to see out his F1 career at Mercedes.

Lewis Hamilton Ferrari transfer: Ex-British driver Martin Brundle compares shock move with Michael Schumacher

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in the 2025 season.&nbsp;The seven-time world champion had been linked with Ferrari in the recent past and speculations were rife regarding a massive switch. While both parties have denied any such negotiations taking place, it is believed that Hamilton is now set to move from Mercedes after the end of his two-year deal.

It is to be noted that Sky Sports television claimed that Mercedes principal Toto Wolff would brief the team before a formal announcement later on Thursday (Feb 1).&nbsp;Hamilton, 39, has been associated with Mercedes since 2013 and won his first title with McLaren 16 years back, in 2008.

It is interesting to note that&nbsp;Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes last year for 2024 and 2025. Now, it&nbsp;appears that the second season may have only been an option with him set to move away.&nbsp;

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Thus, Hamilton's move to Ferrari indicates that he will have an escape clause that means if he signs for Ferrari, he can be a part of them&nbsp;from 2025. While an official confirmation is expected anytime soon, it is a body blow especially for Mercedes who worked hard to extend the veteran star's stay last year. As of now, it is unclear what caused for such a massive switch as many expected Hamilton to see out his F1 career at Mercedes.&nbsp;

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in the 2025 season. The seven-time world champion had been linked with Ferrari in the recent past and speculations were rife regarding a massive switch.

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in the 2025 season. The seven-time world champion had been linked with Ferrari in the recent past and speculations were rife regarding a massive switch. While both parties have denied any such negotiations taking place, it is believed that Hamilton is now set to move from Mercedes after the end of his two-year deal. It is to be noted that Sky Sports television claimed that Mercedes principal Toto Wolff would brief the team before a formal announcement later on Thursday (Feb 1). Hamilton, 39, has been associated with Mercedes since 2013 and won his first title with McLaren 16 years back, in 2008. It is interesting to note that Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes last year for 2024 and 2025. Now, it appears that the second season may have only been an option with him set to move away. Also read: La Liga: Vitor Roque scores debut goal as struggling Barcelona finds form with home win over Osasuna Thus, Hamilton's move to Ferrari indicates that he will have an escape clause that means if he signs for Ferrari, he can be a part of them from 2025. While an official confirmation is expected anytime soon, it is a body blow especially for Mercedes who worked hard to extend the veteran star's stay last year. As of now, it is unclear what caused for such a massive switch as many expected Hamilton to see out his F1 career at Mercedes.

Formula One: Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton to join Ferrari in 2025 season - Reports

Lewis&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;said he felt "incredibly proud" to see Real Madrid winger&nbsp;Vinicius&nbsp;Junior receive this year's&nbsp;Socrates&nbsp;Award&nbsp;at the Ballon d'Or ceremony and vowed to continue speaking out against racism. Brazilian&nbsp;Vinicius, who has been racially abused in LaLiga games in the last two seasons, was recognised for starting a foundation that is building schools in impoverished areas and investing in education in his home country.

"It's really remarkable to see people out there who are facing such challenges and are just being brave in the face of it,"&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;told Reuters on Wednesday in an interview ahead of this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix. The 38-year-old Briton, the sport's only Black driver, had previously showed support for&nbsp;Vinicius&nbsp;when he received racial slurs from fans in a game at Valencia's Mestalla Stadium this year, calling the episode "devastating".

Knighted by his own country,&nbsp;Hamilton&nbsp;was also granted honorary Brazilian citizenship last year and met the 23-year-old forward at this year's Italian Grand Prix. "It was a real honour to meet him, he brought such great energy to the team," said the Mercedes driver, known for his social activism including his defense of minority groups and environmental causes.

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Vinicius, the only Brazilian in the top 10 in the nominees for this year's Ballon d'Or, said he would remain strong in the fight against racism as he accepted the&nbsp;Socrates&nbsp;Award&nbsp;from the Prince of Monaco on Monday. The Vini Jr. Institute, created in 2020, aims to use the popularity of soccer to help innovations in teaching and learning in Brazilian public schools.

It hopes up to 15 schools and 10,000 students will benefit by the end of 2023.Hamilton&nbsp;praised the soccer star for leading by example.

"I'm so grateful that he's been acknowledged and well received," the Briton said. "And to win that reward not only for being a great athlete but for being a great spokesperson for people and for the culture, I think it is very honourable."

Lewis Hamilton said he felt "incredibly proud" to see Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior receive this year's Socrates Award at the Ballon d'Or ceremony and vowed to continue speaking out against racism.

Lewis Hamilton said he felt "incredibly proud" to see Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior receive this year's Socrates Award at the Ballon d'Or ceremony and vowed to continue speaking out against racism. Brazilian Vinicius, who has been racially abused in LaLiga games in the last two seasons, was recognised for starting a foundation that is building schools in impoverished areas and investing in education in his home country. "It's really remarkable to see people out there who are facing such challenges and are just being brave in the face of it," Hamilton told Reuters on Wednesday in an interview ahead of this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix. The 38-year-old Briton, the sport's only Black driver, had previously showed support for Vinicius when he received racial slurs from fans in a game at Valencia's Mestalla Stadium this year, calling the episode "devastating". Knighted by his own country, Hamilton was also granted honorary Brazilian citizenship last year and met the 23-year-old forward at this year's Italian Grand Prix. "It was a real honour to meet him, he brought such great energy to the team," said the Mercedes driver, known for his social activism including his defense of minority groups and environmental causes. Also Read: Arsenal plot long stay at Premier League summit, Man City play Tottenham and Newcastle host Man United Vinicius, the only Brazilian in the top 10 in the nominees for this year's Ballon d'Or, said he would remain strong in the fight against racism as he accepted the Socrates Award from the Prince of Monaco on Monday. The Vini Jr. Institute, created in 2020, aims to use the popularity of soccer to help innovations in teaching and learning in Brazilian public schools. It hopes up to 15 schools and 10,000 students will benefit by the end of 2023.Hamilton praised the soccer star for leading by example. "I'm so grateful that he's been acknowledged and well received," the Briton said. "And to win that reward not only for being a great athlete but for being a great spokesperson for people and for the culture, I think it is very honourable."

Formula One: Lewis Hamilton preparing for eighth championship with winter training programme

Lewis Hamilton said he felt "incredibly proud" of his Mercedes team on Sunday after bouncing back from his disqualification in Texas to finish a strong second in the&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;Grand&nbsp;Prix.&nbsp;Seven days after that disappointment at the United States&nbsp;Grand&nbsp;Prix, where Hamilton came home 2.2 seconds behind Red Bull’s tree-time champion Max Verstappen, he repeated the result at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.&nbsp;

"Honestly, I wasn’t expecting that today," he said. “And it’s a great feeling to be putting one foot in front of the other and progressing.&nbsp;

"Last weekend, we hit the ground running, but this time we had to dig deep to get the set-up right and we did a great job to progress so well in early phases of the race and then to charge for a podium and second place is amazing.&nbsp;

"I am very happy and I am incredibly proud of my team and I have total faith in them. I know we have great engineers and we can build a great car even if we haven’t done that for a couple of years.&nbsp;

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"So we need to be strategic and clinical if we are to battle those guys (Red Bull) as they are so quick on the straight but I am sure we can have a car to match them and then we will have great battles next year." His Mercedes team-mate George Russell came home a disappointed sixth and said his car had over-heated.&nbsp;

"The last 20 laps were terrible. My brakes over-heated and I had to back off. I lost temperature in the tyres and then it was like driving on ice and in the end I was lucky to finish P6. I hope it’s more consistent in Brazil."

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Lewis Hamilton said he felt "incredibly proud" of his Mercedes team on Sunday after bouncing back from his disqualification in Texas to finish a strong second in the Mexico Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton said he felt "incredibly proud" of his Mercedes team on Sunday after bouncing back from his disqualification in Texas to finish a strong second in the Mexico Grand Prix. Seven days after that disappointment at the United States Grand Prix, where Hamilton came home 2.2 seconds behind Red Bull’s tree-time champion Max Verstappen, he repeated the result at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. "Honestly, I wasn’t expecting that today," he said. “And it’s a great feeling to be putting one foot in front of the other and progressing. "Last weekend, we hit the ground running, but this time we had to dig deep to get the set-up right and we did a great job to progress so well in early phases of the race and then to charge for a podium and second place is amazing. "I am very happy and I am incredibly proud of my team and I have total faith in them. I know we have great engineers and we can build a great car even if we haven’t done that for a couple of years. Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks "So we need to be strategic and clinical if we are to battle those guys (Red Bull) as they are so quick on the straight but I am sure we can have a car to match them and then we will have great battles next year." His Mercedes team-mate George Russell came home a disappointed sixth and said his car had over-heated. "The last 20 laps were terrible. My brakes over-heated and I had to back off. I lost temperature in the tyres and then it was like driving on ice and in the end I was lucky to finish P6. I hope it’s more consistent in Brazil." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mexico Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton proud of Mercedes team after bouncing back to finish a strong second

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