It was already known, but now it’s confirmed: Lewis Hamilton will not wear red before the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season, and there will be no Abu Dhabi test with the SF-24 single-seater for the seven-time F1 world champion.
In recent weeks, rumors had started circulating that Mercedes might be willing to “release” the seven-time world champion early, but as confirmed by both Frederic Vasseur and Toto Wolff in a press conference in Las Vegas, that will not happen.
“They have a contract,” said the head of Ferrari. “I didn’t even ask Toto about it.” – the French manager confirmed.
Unlike Mercedes, the Italian team allowed Carlos Sainz to start his adventure with Williams as early as the beginning of December, with the Spaniard scheduled to drive for the team during the post-season tests at Yas Marina following the Grand Prix: “It’s not because we are doing something for Carlos that everyone should do the same,” the Frenchman added. “There’s a contract, and it must be respected. I wanted to thank Carlos for his cooperation, and I don’t want to block him or anything. I think he did a great job with us this season and was very professional, because it would have been easy [for him] not to give up but not to have such a professional attitude.” – the Ferrari team principal pointed out.
“For me, the best way to thank Carlos was also to give him the opportunity to do a test with Williams.”
Mercedes prepares for Lewis Hamilton’s farewell
“Fred didn’t ask,” Toto Wolff finally added on the matter. “I think it’s different even if he’s going to Williams, but we have contractual agreements with the sponsors. We are organizing a farewell for Lewis. We have many activities planned. He and I spoke briefly, and he said, ‘I don’t think it will work.’ And I said, ‘Yes, I don’t think it will work.’ That’s it. I don’t think Fred is particularly sad.” – the Mercedes team principal concluded.
Fans will have to wait a few more months before finally seeing the Brit behind the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car, with the official debut scheduled for the Australian Grand Prix next March.
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