Lewis Hamilton made the best decision of his career a decade ago, signing for Toto Wolffâs team, Mercedes, after deciding to part ways with McLaren. He has gone on to achieve unthinkable things in the sport following the move.
Now a seven-time world champion and arguably the greatest driver to ever take to the track, Hamiltonâs decision looks incredibly sensible, although that hasnât always been the case.
When the move was announced back in 2012, it was met with plenty of negative reactions, with many fans at the time doubting the move for both driver and team.
Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes
The sporting icon has gone on to amass seven world titles since being at the team, with only one coming before the move. So adding to his six world titles with The Silver Arrows, Hamilton has also been a part of eight consecutive Constructorsâ titles, with the team setting new standards in the sport.
Whilst with the team, he has also taken his race win tally to over 100 as well as his total pole positions, showing his dominance with the team.
His loyalty to Wolff and the Merc brand is unmatched, with him starting more races for a constructor than any other driver with any team, as well as saying recently: âIâll always be with Mercedes. I love what Iâm doing and I donât plan on stopping any time soon.â
SINGAPORE - SEPTEMBER 15: Pole position qualifier Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Mercedes GP celebrates in parc ferme during qualifying for the Formula One Grand Prix of Singapore at Marina Bay Street Circuit on September 15, 2018 in Singapore. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
Fans react to Lewis Hamilton leaving McLaren
Hamiltonâs switch was heavily criticised at the time, but unsurprisingly, he made the right call! Some fans of both Hamilton and Mercedes were unhappy with the move, with one saying: âThis is a big mistake! You are nothing without Michael! Bye-bye!â
Another added: âMore chance of Lewis winning the lottery than winning a RACE with Merc!!!â
Whilst someone else commented: âCongratulations now the team will have 2 losers.â
One had this to say: âNow I stop supporting.... Hamilton is not the driver you need.â
Whilst another stated: âWell he has no chance of winning now!â
Tweet: Mercedes initial announcement with the hilarious replies
Thereâs plenty more tweets doubting the move, as well as a handful of sarcastic comments following the unprecedented success both the team and Hamilton have had.
If you have a spare 5-10 minutes then it is well worth a scroll through to see some of the hilarious responses. Itâs safe to say a fair few people need to go through their old tweets to delete some of these absolute clangers.