(Motorsport) After a disappointing 2022 season, Mercedes unveiled their all-black 2023 Formula 1 car as they look to bounce back for a title challenge in the upcoming season. The Silver Arrows were Formula 1’s undisputed dominant force between 2014 and 2021 but were forced to settle for third place after their W13 car suffered from ‘porpoising’ and speed issues. Lewis Hamilton, who failed to win a single race last year will hope to have better fortunes this time around as he continues to set his sights on a record eighth World Championship. Mercedes have promised an all-new “DNA” for the W14, which features a black livery after a year in silver.

Lewis Hamilton and George Russell are expected to drive their brand new W14 car at the Northamptonshire circuit later today. Russell, who outperformed Hamilton in his rookie campaign, won Mercedes’ only race in 2022, thereby becoming the first teammate to outscore Hamilton since Nico Rosberg in 2016. 2023 represents the final year in Lewis Hamilton’s contract with Mercedes although the 38 year old is expected to sign his final F1 deal with team principal Toto Wolff saying that the two parties are in talks.

“I love being part of a team that is working towards a common goal,” said Hamilton. “I always believe I can get better. I always love that challenge, the physical and mental element, having to deep dive and extract more performance from yourself and the people around you. “The car is always changing, there’s always new tools, and I love that. I’m planning to stay here a little bit longer.” Pre-season testing will begin on February 23-25 before the Bahrain Grand Prix starts on March 5th.

Also read: Scuderia Ferrari expect Mercedes and Hamilton to compete for title in 2023