Lewis Hamilton thanks McLaren staff ahead of his switch to Mercedes

Lewis Hamilton bade a final goodbye to staff at McLaren's headquarters on Friday ahead of his move to Mercedes next season.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Hamilton said he was targeting podium finishes in 2013, adding that Mercedes could reach the top step if things go "really, really well". However, Hamilton added that the 2014 season - when major rule changes are introduced - represents Mercedes' best hope of mounting a title challenge. "I think the guys have great, great potential and that's why I'm going there," he said. "I don't see it as a short-term thing. For me personally, I don't get in the car until February, so I won't be able to have a big enough impact until at least six months down the line. "I think 2014 has to be the most important year, or the most competitive year. But I don't see why we can't try and clinch a few podiums. "If we get some wins next year - if it just happens to go really, really well - then we'll be smiling. But we'll see."