Hamilton says leaving McLaren for Mercedes like ``leaving home``

London: Former Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has said leaving McLaren for Mercedes was as tough as leaving your home, but the Brit added he wants to take next step with his new team. The 27-year-old has spent his entire career with the Woking-based team, including a 2008 title victory, but will next season move on to pastures new, taking up a contract with Mercedes. "It was the hardest decision I`ve ever made.

It is to do with the process of growing up, of leaving home. That`s why I am taking the next step, to grow as a driver and as a human being," Hamilton, said. To some the move could look like a step down, with Mercedes having won just one race since their change of identity from Brawn GP in 2010. But Hamilton said: "The team I`m joining isn`t yet performing well. But I hope I`ll be able to help them get where they want to be." ANI