Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton leaves Mercedes to join Ferrari in surprise team switch

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes-Benz are coming to the finish line, with the seven-time Formula One champion and the German automaker announcing the coming season will be their last. The British driver is joining Ferrari next year.

Hamilton signed a two-year agreement with Mercedes in the summer, but activated a release option in the contract, making this season his last driving for the Silver Arrows, according to a statement by Mercedes-AMG Petronas. 

Scuderia Ferrari confirmed the development, announcing Thursday that Hamilton would be joining the team in 2025 on a multiyear contract.