Mercedes signs Hamiltonposted in F128 | 09 | 2012

MERCEDES HAS CONFIRMED it has signed Lewis Hamilton on a multi-million pound three-year deal. Hamilton will replace seven-times world champ Michael Schumacher in the team from 2013.

And McLaren wasted no time announcing their replacement: Mexican Sergio Perez switches from Sauber to fill the seat vacated by Hamilton. It's believed Hamilton's deal is worth around £15m a year.

"It is now time for me to take on a fresh challenge and I am very excited to begin a new chapter racing for the Mercedes Formula 1 team," former world champ Hamilton, who will partner Nico Rosberg, said.

"Mercedes-Benz has such an incredible heritage in motorsport, along with a passion for winning which I share.

Scots Formula One ace Paul di Resta: Best day in F1

"Together, we can grow and rise to this new challenge. I believe that I can help steer the Silver Arrows to the top and achieve our joint ambitions of winning the world championships."

Hamilton's career has received backing from both Mercedes and McLaren, having driven with Mercedes-Benz engines in the Formula 3 Euro Series and during his whole F1 career at the Woking team.

"I am delighted to welcome Lewis Hamilton to our team," Mercedes boss Ross Brawn said. "The arrival of a driver of Lewis' calibre is a testament to the standing of Mercedes-Benz in Formula 1 and I am proud that Lewis shares our vision and ambition for the success of the Silver Arrows.

"I believe that the combination of Lewis and Nico will be the most dynamic and exciting pairing on the grid next year, and I am looking forward to what we can achieve together."

Porsche podium for Fifer Rory Butcher

Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/scotcars

Jim McGill