Lewis Hamilton's long and illustrious career with Mercedes-AMG Petronas has officially come to an end. As the seven-time world champion prepares to don the red of Ferrari for the 2025 season, Hamilton took time to reflect on the journey that took him to the pinnacle of Formula 1. Amid the emotional farewell to the factory from Mercedes' Brackley and Petronas headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Hamilton expressed particular gratitude to a figure who played a key role in shaping his career: Norbert Haugthe former vice president of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport.
Hamilton's tribute to Norbert Haug: “I was a real pain in the ass”
In an emotional farewell message, Hamilton reflected on his early days and the crucial role Haug played in helping him break through to Formula 1. Known for his relentless determination, Hamilton revealed that he often called Haug, asking constantly when he could race in F1 or test a car. Despite Hamilton's impatience, Haug offered calm and steady advice.
“Norbert was an integral part of all that, of that whole era. And I was a real pain because I was calling Mercedes, I was calling Martin [Whitmarsh]I called Norbert: 'When can I run? When can I test drive an F1 car?' And Norbert said: 'Take your time, take your time.' So we shared incredible memories.”
Haug, instrumental in Mercedes' motorsport operations at the time, helped lay the groundwork for Hamilton's debut with McLaren in 2007—a partnership that would produce an unforgettable rookie season and a first world title in 2008.
12 Years of Domination: Hamilton Reflects on His Time at Mercedes
Hamilton's move to Mercedes in 2013 initially raised questions, but it turned out to be a masterstroke. Over 12 seasons, he won six world championships, 82 Grand Prix victories and countless record-breaking performances, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest drivers in history.
In his farewell message, Hamilton expressed immense pride in how he had repaid the trust Mercedes had placed in him, elevating the team and the iconic three-pointed star to unprecedented heights.
“I think I really wanted to repay that trust and faith that they placed in me by giving them the best results over the years. And also just raise the Mercedes brand as high as possible. And I think we did it. So, I’m really proud to have been a part of it.”
The Road Ahead: Hamilton's Challenge at Ferrari
As Hamilton turns the page on his career at Mercedes, he prepares for a new adventure with Ferrari, arguably the most iconic name in motorsport. Joining the Scuderia at the age of 39, Hamilton faces the dual challenges of helping Ferrari end a 16-year title drought and ensuring his own legacy transcends team allegiances.
The Briton's move is already generating excitement, with fans hoping Hamilton can revive Ferrari's glory days. Known to thrive under pressure, Hamilton's assignment with Ferrari could be the ultimate test of his legendary career.
The Enduring Legacy of Norbert Haug
For Hamilton, Haug's influence remains a defining element of his career. As Hamilton prepares to take on a new challenge, the bond and trust forged with Haug during his formative years is a reminder of the crucial role mentors play in building champions.
Hamilton's words of gratitude were not only a farewell to a team, but also an acknowledgment of the people who believed in his talent long before he became an F1 legend. For fans, it is a poignant moment marking the end of an era while also heralding the start of what promises to be an electrifying new chapter at Ferrari.
