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    ‘We need to move on’ – Wolff and Horner AGREE to put 2021 title finale behind them after Hamilton-Verstappen controversy

    MERCEDES boss Toto Wolff and his Red Bull rival Christian Horner agreed that it’s time to move on from last season’s controversial finale.The Silver Arrows have been smarting from Lewis Hamilton losing the title to Max Verstappen on a dramatic final day in Abu Dhabi.
    Christian Horner (second left) and Toto Wolff (second right) agreed to put the 2021 finale behind themCredit: Getty
    Lewis Hamilton drives the new Mercedes around Barcelona in testing on WednesdayCredit: PA
    The fallout even led to race director Michael Masi being fired and a change in regulations regarding team communications.
    But the cars hit the track in Barcelona on Wednesday for testing ahead of the 2022 season.
    And Wolff and Horner both think it’s time to look ahead to the new season rather than revisit the past.
    Red Bull chief Horner said: “Maybe we have different opinions, but that’s behind us now.
    “We saw a great battle last year from the first race to the last. That has been hugely important for the rise in popularity of Formula 1.”
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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    And his rival Wolff agreed: “I agree with Christian that we need to move on.
    “There has been so much talk about Abu Dhabi that it came to a point that it is really damaging for all of us stakeholders of Formula 1 and we have closed the chapter and moved on.
    “Now it is about 2022. The game is on again, all points are back to zero and there are new opportunities and new risks.”
    The teams have a three-day test in Spain this week and three more days in Bahrain from March 10-12.
    The season begins on March 18 in Bahrain with 23 races currently on the 2022 calendar. More

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    George Russell believes new Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton was ROBBED in F1 season finale

    GEORGE RUSSELL says ‘mistakes’ by race chiefs robbed Lewis Hamilton of last season’s Formula One title.Russell, who has just become Hamilton’s new team-mate at Mercedes, aired his views at the launch of the team’s new W13 car.
    Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton (left) and George Russell flank team chief Toto Wolff at the launch of their new W13 carCredit: AFP
    Hamilton was on course to win a record eighth Drivers’ championship crown before being denied by a controversial call in the season finale race in Abu Dhabi in December.
    A complicated and disputed decision by recently sacked race director Michael Masi allowed Red Bull’s Max Verstappen to pip Hamilton on the final lap and claim the title.
    The FIA’s new set-up means a team of race directors will now be supported by video referees when it comes to making mid-race decisions.
    But that will be little comfort to Hamilton – and Russell has sympathy for his new team-mate.
    Former Williams star Russell, 24, said: “He had that race completely under control.
    “He only had to bring it home and he would have been an eight-time champion and he had that taken away from him.”
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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    He added: “Mistakes happen when the heat of the moment is on and people’s emotions are high.
    “In sport, there is always a huge amount of pressure on every individual, whether it be the athlete, the coach, the manager, the engineers, the referee or the race director.
    “We’ve all come to the agreement that what happened in Abu Dhabi was incorrect and the changes have been made because of the outcome of Abu Dhabi.” More

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    ‘Never give up on your goal’ – Lewis Hamilton hands out brilliant advice to young racing stars as F1 return confirmed

    LEWIS HAMILTON has passed on invaluable advice to Mercedes’ stars of the future.The seven-time world champion fielded questions from junior drivers as the Silver Arrows unveiled their new W13 car at Silverstone on Friday.
    Lewis Hamilton took questions from junior driversCredit: YouTube: Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team
    Alex Powell quizzed the seven-time champCredit: Twitter @F1
    Hamilton, 37, was asked by 14-year-old Alex Powell about how to inspire budding karters in other parts of the world.
    Powell said: “I come from the Caribbean and that’s where I started my go-karting career.
    “In my limited capacity I try to encourage other karters from the Caribbean to achieve whatever their goal is.
    “But with your experience as a seven-time world champion, what advice would you give to them?”
    Hamilton replied: “I think firstly, I commend you on that, and I think it’s really just about believing in yourself.
    “If you have a goal, if you have an ambition, it’s never losing sight of that and staying focused.
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    “Each and every one of you has a unique ability and I can see already the drive in all of your eye, which really connects us because we’ve all had that since very young.
    “And I think really just, as I said, just never give up on your dream, never give up on your goal.
    “It takes hard work and dedication so, you know, focus and give it absolutely everything.
    “And naturally, I think the most important thing is education. Make sure you work hard at school – because that is the foundation to enable us to do what we do in the cars we have today.”
    I never, ever said that I was going to stopLewis Hamilton
    Hamilton also lifted the lid on retirement rumours that surrounded him during the off-season.
    The Brit said: “I never, ever said that I was going to stop. I love doing what I do, and it is such a privilege working with this large group of people.
    “You really feel like you’re part of a team and part of a family, working towards that common goal. There’s no feeling quite like it.
    “But yeah… it was obviously a difficult time for me, and it was a time where I really needed to take a step back and focus on being present. I had my family all around me, and creating great moments.
    “And I eventually got to a point where I decided I was going to be attacking coming into another season, and working with Toto [Wolff] and George [Russell].
    “It’s exciting seeing George come in and bringing his energy. I can already feel that throughout the team. I think it’s going to be an exciting season.”
    Hamilton, 37, is gearing up for the new season alongside George RussellCredit: PA More

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    Lewis Hamilton told Max Verstappen’s F1 world title win should not be overturned even with Michael Masi being sacked

    MAX VERSTAPPEN’S F1 world title win should NOT be overturned, insists Karun Chandhok.The FIA’s decision to axe Michael Masi as race director effectively admits that the Aussie made a costly error that cost Lewis Hamilton the title.
    Lewis Hamilton sportingly applauds as Max Verstappen celebrates victory in Abu DhabiCredit: Reuters
    Karun Chandhok doesn’t believe that the result can be overturnedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    But analyst and former F1 driver Karun Chandhok believes that ‘too many variables’ were at play to justify handing Verstappen’s championship over to Hamilton.
    He told Sky Sports: “I don’t believe the result should be overturned,.
    “I think there are too many variables involved in that process just to clearly say ‘if the lapped cars had been left there, Lewis would have 100 per cent won’.
    “I don’t think you can definitively say that. Even Mercedes would definitively not be able to say that. So I don’t think the result can be overturned.”
    The issue stemmed from Masi’s call to allow Verstappen to unlap himself behind the safety car – leaving Hamilton a sitting duck on old tyres.
    New FIA chief Mohammed Ben Sulayem has since announced structural changes that include a virtual race control room being deployed as part of a ‘new race management team’ that replaces Masi’s old role.
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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    Speaking at today’s Mercedes car launch, team principal Toto Wolff appeared pleased with the outcome.
    The Austrian, who was left incensed by Masi in Abu Dhabi, said: “I think it’s very encouraging to see that action has been taken. There is a much-more robust structure now.
    “The FIA has stated that there will be a virtual Race Control Room with state of the art technology.
    “And the new guys are going to be in place for the Barcelona test and I think the right steps. It is a new era for the sport.”
    I never, ever said that I was going to stopLewis Hamilton
    At the launch, Hamilton finally broke his silence on retirement rumours, insisting that he is excited ahead of the new season.
    He said: “I never, ever said that I was going to stop. I love doing what I do, and it is such a privilege working with this large group of people.
    “You really feel like you’re part of a team and part of a family, working towards that common goal. There’s no feeling quite like it.
    “But yeah… it was obviously a difficult time for me, and it was a time where I really needed to take a step back and focus on being present. I had my family all around me, and creating great moments.
    “And I eventually got to a point where I decided I was going to be attacking coming into another season, and working with Toto and George [Russell].
    Lewis Hamilton is excited for a new season alongside George RussellCredit: PA
    Toto Wolff spoke at Mercedes’ new car launchCredit: YouTube: Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team More

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    ‘Return of the Silver Arrows’ – Fans gush over retro livery as Mercedes reveal 2022 F1 car with Hamilton in the hotseat

    MERCEDES unveiled their new car for the 2022 season – and fans could not get enough of it.The reigning constructors’ champions will once again take to the grid in their traditional silver livery after dropping their previous black paint job.
    Mercedes unveiled their W13 car for the 2022 seasonCredit: Daimler AG
    Merc introduced the special edition look back in 2020 as a sign of the team’s commitment to fighting racism and discrimination.
    But the team will switch back to its ‘Silver Arrows’ moniker for the W13 as F1 introduces drastic new design regulations for the new season.
    Fans online cooed over the fresh look as the team gathered at Silverstone for the official launch.
    User Jo wrote on Twitter: “I love her! Loved the black but…our Silver Arrow is back! Best looking car no question… #W13 well done Team she’s a beauty!”
    Kevin Ticehurst wrote: “A truly beautiful machine. Loving the new livery. Now onwards to a 9th successive constructors’ championship and an 8th world championship for Lewis, or possibly a first world title for George!!!”
    Kelvin Martin wrote: “It’s a stunner! Well done to the entire team that put in hours and hours of effort to produce this magnificent looking car.”
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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    And RobLMeyers added: “Hope she’s as fast as she is beautiful!”
    Seven-time champ Lewis Hamilton ended months of retirement speculation by confirming he would return to the grid this year.
    Fans had feared he was planning to hang up his race suit after the shocking season finale that saw him robbed of a record eighth drivers’ crown last term.
    But the 37-year-old revealed he is ‘excited’ to drive his new motor after the team’s ‘incredible hard work’ during the off-season. More

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    Hamilton and Max Verstappen’s F1 title end sees FIA install ‘virtual Race Control Room’ as Wolff hails VAR style changes

    MERCEDES chief Toto Wolff has hailed FIA changes after Michael Masi was sacked as race director yesterday.Masi, 44, was relieved of his duties after his December blunder in Abu Dhabi cost Lewis Hamilton a record eighth championship.
    Toto Wolff was speaking alongside Lewis Hamilton and George RussellCredit: YouTube: Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team
    Michael Masi was relieved of his duties yesterdayCredit: Getty
    Speaking at today’s new car launch at Silverstone, Merc chief Wolff cut a relaxed figure as he had his say on the ‘more robust structure’ – which has been liked to VAR in football – that will now be in place.
    He said: “I think it’s very encouraging to see that action has been taken. There is a much-more robust structure now.
    “The FIA has stated that there will be a virtual Race Control Room with state of the art technology.
    “And the new guys are going to be in place for the Barcelona test and I think the right steps. It is a new era for the sport.”
    On his team’s ambitions for this year, Wolff stressed that nothing can be taken for granted.
    The 50-year-old added: “The mindset of the team has always been the same over the last few years and that is the point count goes back to zero.
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    Hamilton and Russell were shown their new car for the 2022 seasonCredit: Daimler AG
    “There is nothing from the previous years that will make you win the current championship, no credits to be taken, but also no sense of entitlement.
    “Like every year we are sceptical whether we’ve done a good enough job. And and that’s the right the right mentality.”
    Meanwhile, at the launch, Hamilton finally addressed the retirement rumours that surrounded him for much of the last two months.
    The seven-time world champion, 37, said: “I never, ever said that I was going to stop. I love doing what I do, and it is such a privilege working with this large group of people.
    It was obviously a difficult time for me, and it was a time where I really needed to take a step back and focus on being presentLewis Hamilton
    “You really feel like you’re part of a team and part of a family, working towards that common goal. There’s no feeling quite like it.
    “But yeah…it was obviously a difficult time for me, and it was a time where I really needed to take a step back and focus on being present. I had my family all around me, and creating great moments.
    “And I eventually got to a point where I decided I was going to be attacking coming into another season, and working with Toto and George [Russell].
    “It’s exciting seeing George come in and bringing his energy. I can already feel that throughout the team. I think it’s going to be an exciting season.”
    Mercedes’ W13 car features a return to silver, as well as a new chassis and body work.
    It feels incredible, both Lewis and I have driven so many laps in the simulator in thisGeorge Russell
    On his new motor, Hamilton said: “It takes you back to being a kid. We’ve never seen such a drastic change as this era of cars, but the team have come together to create hopefully a masterpiece.
    “We have no idea how it is going to handle, but he have driven so many laps on the simulator.”
    Russell, 24, then added: “It feels incredible, both Lewis and I have driven so many laps in the simulator in this.
    “Seeing all the hard work come together here, it looks incredible.”
    Mercedes revealed the new W13Credit: Daimler AG
    The new car features ‘drastic changes’Credit: Daimler AG More

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    F1 calendar 2022: Grand Prix schedule, testing, tracks and results as Hamilton aims to regain crown in new bumper season

    LEWIS HAMILTON may have lost last year’s F1 title in controversial circumstances, but this time he’ll be gunning to get his gong back starting next month.Max Verstappen picked up his maiden championship in the final race of the season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December – during a race we will be talking about for decades.

    🏁 F1 2022 calendar: practice times, dates and racetrack info
    The new season is upon us with testing set to get underway in February, as Mercedes and Red Bull look set to battle it out for the Constructors’ Championship yet again.
    Then Bahrain is the first race of the season, the same venue as the second testing week, when motorsport’s biggest rivalry ensues.
    Rumours over Hamilton’s future in F1 have been swirling in recent weeks but he’s yet to give any indication he’s taking a break or retiring from the sport.
    Until then, strap yourselves in for one of the most hotly-anticipated seasons in F1 history.
    Here is how the F1 calendar unfolds for the 2022 season…
    Pre-season testing
    First test

    Wednesday, February 23 – Day 1, First Test, Barcelona
    Thursday, February 24 – Day 2, First Test, Barcelona
    Friday, February 25 – Day 3, First Test, Barcelona

    Second test

    Thursday, March 10 – Day 1, Second Test, Bahrain
    Friday, March 11 – Day 2, Second Test, Bahrain
    Saturday, March 12 – Day 3, Second Test, Bahrain

    F1 calendar 2022
    Practice, Qualifying, Sprint & Race times TBC.
    🇧🇭 Bahrain Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir
    Friday, March 18:
    Saturday, March, 19:
    Sunday, March 20:

    🇸🇦 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Jeddah Street Circuit
    Friday, March 25:
    Saturday, March 26:
    Sunday, March 27:

    🇦🇺 Australian Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Albert Park Circuit
    Friday, April 8:
    Saturday, April 9:
    Sunday, April 10:

    🇮🇹 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, Imola
    Friday, April 22:
    Saturday, April 23:
    Sunday, April 24:

    🇺🇸 Miami Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Miami International Autodrome
    Friday, May 6:
    Saturday, May 7:
    Sunday, May 8:

    🇪🇸 Spanish Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
    Friday, May 20:
    Saturday, May 21:
    Sunday, May 22:

    🇲🇨 Monaco Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Circuit de Monaco in Monte Carlo
    Friday, May 27
    Saturday, May 28
    Sunday, May 29

    🇦🇿 Azerbaijan Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Baku City Circuit
    Friday, June 10:
    Saturday, June 11:
    Sunday, June 12:

    🇨🇦 Canadian Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal
    Friday, June 17:
    Saturday, June 18:
    Sunday, June 19:

    🇬🇧 British Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Silverstone Circuit, Northamptonshire
    Friday, July 1:
    Saturday, July 2:
    Sunday, July 3:

    🇦🇹 Austrian Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Red Bull Ring, Spielberg
    Friday, July 8:
    Saturday, July 9:
    Sunday, July 10:

    🇫🇷 French Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Circuit Paul Ricard, Le Castellet
    Friday, July 22:
    Saturday, July 23:
    Sunday, July 24:

    🇭🇺 Hungarian Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Hungaroring, Budapest
    Friday, July 29:
    Saturday, July 30:
    Sunday, July 31:

    🇧🇪 Belgian Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps
    Friday, August 26:
    Saturday, August 27:
    Sunday, August 28:

    🇳🇱 Dutch Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Zandvoort
    Friday, September 2:
    Saturday, September 3
    Sunday, September 4:

    🇮🇹 Italian Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Autodromo Nazionale Monza
    Friday, September 9:
    Saturday, September 10:
    Sunday, September 11:

    🇷🇺 Russian Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Sochi Autodrom
    Friday, September 23:
    Saturday, September 24:
    Sunday, September 25:

    🇸🇬 Singapore Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Marina Bay Street Circuit
    Friday, September 30:
    Saturday, October 1:
    Sunday, October 2:

    🇯🇵 Japanese Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Suzuka Circuit
    Friday, October 7:
    Saturday, October 8:
    Sunday, October 9:

    🇺🇸 United States Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Circuit of The Americas, Austin, Texas
    Friday, October 21:
    Saturday, October 22:
    Sunday, October 23:

    🇲🇽 Mexico City Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City
    Friday, October 28:
    Saturday, October 29:
    Sunday, October 30:

    🇧🇷 Sao Paulo Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace, Interlagos
    Friday, November 11:
    Saturday, November 12:
    Sunday, November 13:

    🇦🇪 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
    🏆 Grand Prix result:

    Venue: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island
    Friday, November 18:
    Saturday, November 19:
    Sunday, November 20:

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    Lewis Hamilton finally breaks silence over ‘difficult time’ after Max Verstappen title win and quashes retirement talk

    LEWIS HAMILTON has broken his silence on the retirement rumours that surrounded him during the off season.Mercedes congregated at Silverstone today to reveal their new W13 car ahead of the 2022 season.
    Lewis Hamilton addressed retirement rumours alongside George Russell and Toto WolffCredit: YouTube: Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team
    The 37-year-old is ‘excited’ ahead of the new seasonCredit: YouTube: Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team
    Hamilton, 37, admitted that he’s ‘excited’ to drive his new motor after the ‘incredible hard work’ of the all team’s engineers.
    On talk that he could have called it a day, he revealed: “I never, ever said that I was going to stop. I love doing what I do, and it is such a privilege working with this large group of people.
    “You really feel like you’re part of a team and part of a family, working towards that common goal. There’s no feeling quite like it.
    “But yeah… it was obviously a difficult time for me, and it was a time where I really needed to take a step back and focus on being present. I had my family all around me, and creating great moments.
    “And I eventually got to a point where I decided I was going to be attacking coming into another season, and working with Toto and George [Russell].
    “It’s exciting seeing George come in and bringing his energy. I can already feel that throughout the team. I think it’s going to be an exciting season.”

    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
    Mercedes will return to silver in 2022Credit: Daimler AG
    The Silver Arrows have had to adapt to new regulationsCredit: Daimler AG
    Toto Wolff’s team are aiming for yet another championshipCredit: Daimler AG
    The new W13 features a return to silver, as well as a number of changes to the chassis and power unit.
    On these adaptations, Merc technical director Mike Elliott revealed: “On the chassis side, the changes are huge.
    “We haven’t had a change as big as this one in my career. I think there are three aspects to this: first, the way the regulations are constructed is very different, particularly for aerodynamics, and that has a big impact.
    “Second, what they are trying to achieve with the aerodynamics means the cars are fundamentally a different shape.
    “Third, this is the first time we will have attempted such a big change under a cost cap.”
    I think it’s very encouraging to see that action has been takenToto Wolff on FIA changes
    At the slick launch, team principal Toto Wolff also had his say on the FIA, amid the news that race director Michael Masi was relieved of his duties yesterday.
    The Austrian, 50, said: “I think it’s very encouraging to see that action has been taken. There is a much-more robust structure now.
    “The FIA has stated that there will be a virtual Race Control Room with state of the art technology.
    “And the new guys are going to be in place for the Barcelona test and I think the right steps. It is a new era for the sport.”
    Ahead of getting a look at his new car, new-boy Russell opened up on how he’s settling in with the Silver Arrows, admitting: “It’s easier because there are so many faces that I’ve known over the past six or seven years now.
    “When we started working together, we’re straight into business.
    Seeing Lewis work when I was a junior driver, it feels quite natural to go in there being team-mates with himGeorge Russell
    “Obviously, the relationships are always built over time, but I only knew so many of the people and obviously having worked with Lewis…
    “Seeing Lewis work when I was a junior driver, it feels quite natural to go in there being team-mates with him, racing alongside him.
    “I think it’s going to be a really exciting season for all of us and for Formula One generally because there’s so much that has changed.
    “There’s so much to learn. There’s gonna be so much development over the course of this season.
    “We really need to be on top of our game as as drivers to help give the feedback to the team and working as one to to really push the car forward because I think from the first race to the last race of the season, they’ll probably be some drastic changes we see on the cars.”
    Hamilton will be joined by a new team-mate this seasonCredit: Daimler AG
    The British sporting legend wants that eighth driver’s titleCredit: Daimler AG More