British driver Lewis Hamilton has signed a three-year deal to drive for Mercedes from next year, replacing seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, the firm announced on Friday.
“Lewis will replace Michael Schumacher, who over the past three years has made a significant contribution” to the constructor, the firm said in a statement, describing the appointment as a “new chapter” for the team.
Hamilton will drive alongside Nico Rosberg, who will be in his fourth year at Mercedes and won his first Formula One race this year in China.
Schumacher said he had enjoyed his three years at Mercedes, although he accepted that results had been disappointing.
“I wish Lewis well and for the team to achieve the success we worked so hard for in the build-up,” he said in the statement. I would like to thank the team for their trust and all the guys for their unconditional commitment.
“I will now concentrate on the next races.”