has revealed his rapid response to calling him about becoming a member of – as anticipation builds in the direction of his race debut with the workforce subsequent week.
The seven-time world champion shocked the sporting world when he introduced he can be leaving – after 12 years and 6 world championships – on the finish of the 2024 season.
Hamilton had been linked with a transfer to Ferrari since 2018 however after signing a two-year take care of Mercedes in the summertime of 2023, a transfer to the Italian giants appeared unlikely.
However the British driver’s contract included a clause that allowed him to depart after one yr. And Hamilton recalled to final week the second when Ferrari workforce principal Vasseur made his transfer, revealing he sat on the toilet ground in silence after the decision.
“I bear in mind getting off the cellphone and, like, virtually shaking,” Hamilton mentioned, when he received the decision in Colorado in December 2023.
“I used to be like, holy s***! I actually simply signed with Mercedes.
“It was lots to soak up and my feelings had been actually excessive. So I actually needed to go for a stroll.”
Hamilton, now 40, then spent a number of days meditating earlier than concluding {that a} £50m-a-year transfer to Ferrari was the best name.
“My eyes felt actually calm and current,” he mentioned. “That is the best factor for me.”
Hamilton has skilled a “dream” first month or so with the Ferrari, receiving in Maranello and London as he appeared in scarlet pink for the primary time.
Ferrari had a in Bahrain final week, however nonetheless seem like trailing final yr’s constructors’ champions McLaren forward of the brand new season.
Hamilton is eyeing a record-breaking eighth world championship, which might take him above Ferrari legend Michael Schumacher within the all-time listing.
The 2025 season begins subsequent week in Australia (14-16 March).
