The 2024 Formula 1 season has been marked by high drama and intense speculation, and the latest development has sent shockwaves throughout the paddock. In a move that has been widely anticipated, Ferrari has confirmed that Carlos Sainz will be leaving the team at the end of the current season, paving the way for the arrival of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
The news was announced during an emotional press conference at Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters, where Sainz was hailed as a “true Ferrari driver” by team principal Frederic Vasseur.
“Carlos has been an integral part of our team for the past two seasons, and we are deeply grateful for his contributions,” Vasseur said. “He is a talented driver, a dedicated team player, and a true Ferrari driver. We wish him all the best for his future endeavors.”
Sainz, who joined Ferrari in 2021, has been a consistent points-scorer for the team, but has struggled to match the pace of his teammate Charles Leclerc. Despite this, he has remained a popular figure within the team and the wider F1 community.
“I want to thank Ferrari for the opportunity to drive for this incredible team,” Sainz said. “It has been an honor to wear the red suit and represent the prancing horse. I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I am grateful for the experience and knowledge gained during my time here.”
The departure of Sainz has paved the way for the arrival of Lewis Hamilton, who is widely expected to join Ferrari on a multi-year deal. Hamilton, who has won seven world championships with McLaren and Mercedes, has been linked with a move to Ferrari for several months, and is believed to have agreed a lucrative contract with the Italian team.
The signing of Hamilton is a major coup for Ferrari, who have been searching for a driver of his caliber to lead their team since the departure of Sebastian Vettel in 2020. Hamilton’s arrival is expected to bring a significant boost to Ferrari’s championship hopes, and is likely to send shockwaves throughout the F1 paddock.
“Lewis is a driver of incredible talent and experience, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Ferrari,” Vasseur said. “We believe that he has the potential to bring us our first drivers’ championship since 2007, and we are excited to see him in action.”
The arrival of Hamilton at Ferrari is likely to have significant implications for the F1 driver market, with several top drivers believed to be considering their options for the 2025 season. Mercedes, who have dominated the sport in recent years, are likely to be particularly affected by Hamilton’s departure, and may need to look elsewhere for a driver to lead their team.
As for Sainz, his future plans are currently unclear, although he is believed to be in talks with several top teams. Despite his departure from Ferrari, Sainz remains a highly respected and talented driver, and is likely to find a new seat in F1 for the 2025 season.
In conclusion, the departure of Carlos Sainz from Ferrari and the expected arrival of Lewis Hamilton marks a significant turning point in the F1 season. As the paddock continues to react to this news, one thing is clear: the 2025 F1 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory.