There is no greater F1 story than Lewis Hamilton‘s seven championships and no magnificent transfer than his joining F1’s most successful team – Ferrari. His father, also his former manager, Anthony Hamilton, was a strong pillar in thrusting the Mercedes star into greatness. But when Mercedes tumbled down from the Number 1 spot and remained helpless for 2 years post-2021, an atmosphere of mediocrity couldn’t contain the light that Hamilton was. Hence, the Ferrari seed was planted. Ahead of the Monaco GP, the Briton has finally opened up on his father’s pivotal role in spurring this decision.

A few days after Ferrari‘s official announcement in February, Hamilton revealed how he kept this mammoth decision a secret from his parents. That came as a shock, considering how close he is to them. But when Anthony was questioned about it, he said he “somewhat” knew about the behind-the-scenes flurry.

On a populous dinner night in Monaco on Saturday, the 7-time champion shared some emotional stories. One anecdote that stood out was how his father lit the fire that eventually pushed him to quit Mercedes. In an Instagram post shared by Finnish actor-singer Katariina Juselius, Hamilton says, “My dad told me to try something new, reset, and it was honestly the best decision I ever made. The last 12 years have been incredible and (I am) so grateful to have been part of Mercedes history,” he gratefully added.

After he puts the finishing touches to end his Mercedes stint beautifully, the British veteran will begin a new chapter in 2025. A new era that his father, Anthony, didn’t expect but left him floored.

How Lewis Hamilton fulfilled his father’s “ultimate dream” with the Ferrari move

Lewis Hamilton began his F1 career with McLaren before moving to Mercedes after 6 years. Though he won 6 more championships with them and stayed for 6 more years than his McLaren stint, the last piece of the puzzle was missing. His familial dream of donning Ferrari’s Red wasn’t complete. But now, it is on the horizon, running towards him.

When Anthony Hamilton was asked if Ferrari was ever a part of their dream, he replied, “Yes, part of my dream, part of his dream. You know, when you’re young, you always dream of racing for Ferrari. And we love all the old teams, McLaren and Mercedes, but being in a red car is the ultimate dream.”

After achieving his father’s “ultimate dream”, the 7-time champion will look to fulfil his 8th champion dream in 2025. The stage is set, and the clock is running.