Seven-time Formula One world champion
Lewis Hamilton talked about his excitement about joining Ferrari
next season after 12 years with Mercedes on Thursday ahead of
this weekend's season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Hamilton is set to replace Carlos Sainz, who will join Williams
after being dropped by the Italian glamour team.
"It really sparks motivation and it's a dream scenario for any
driver to have an opportunity like this," Hamilton told a news
conference when asked about the move.
"Massive respect for Carlos and everything he's done within the
team. And I realise it's a steep…
"You know, I remember when I joined Mercedes, and it's not an
easy step to ever enter into a new team.
"And it takes time to build new relationships and learn the
tools and everything. Coming into next year with that same
focus, that same might that I had when I joined Mercedes and
with ultimately that leap of faith, I think is exciting and
exhilarating".
Ferrari go into the final weekend trailing leaders McLaren by 21
points, so Sainz is in with a chance of helping the team win the
constructors' title in his last race with them.
"It would mean everything to me," Sainz said when asked about
this happening.
"It's the best way to say goodbye to my home these last four
years and to the team that I've given my absolute best to for
the last four years and I've enjoyed every single moment with
them".
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