‘Disappointing’ does not begin to cover the season Lewis Hamilton had in 2022. The Brit finished an F1 season without a race win for the first time in his career. However, despite the discouraging season, former Red Bull men think Hamilton will turn things up a notch in 2023.

Former Red Bull drivers David Coulthard and Mark Webber are of the opinion that Abu Dhabi GP took a massive toll on Hamilton. The disheartening end to 2021 was followed up by an uncompetitive car, adding insult to injury. However, while speaking to Motorsport.com both Red Bull men expressed after overcoming Abu Dhabi, Hamilton found his rhythm.

Coulthard said, “In my opinion, Lewis has only found the energy during the season and also the hunger for success.” Mark Webber echoed Coulthard’s opinion and said, “Lewis is of course one of the very best in our sport, but it has been a tough winter for him to pull himself together and come back.” (Translated by Google)

However, Coulthard believes Hamilton has found hunger. Moreover, he is already at 99%, he just needs to push 1% more in 2023 to clinch the title. “Lewis, with his newfound motivation, is now also back to, say, 99 percent of what he’s capable of.” He said and added, “That winning instinct is in him. If the victories are achievable again next year.”

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Not just the two former Red Bull men, but Sir Hamilton himself believes in the 2023 project after the disappointing 2022. In fact, it’s the entire Mercedes paddock that believes the team will be back to winning ways in the upcoming season.

Mercedes boss echoes Lewis Hamilton and the team’s belief for 2023

It is no secret Mercedes fell face-first with the construction of the W13. However, the team and the drivers did not lose hope and consistently brought changes. Those changes have now given them a solid baseline for 2023.

As quoted by Express, Toto Wolff showcased confidence for 2023. He said, “Now we are just pushing forward for next year. It’s rough, it’s bad, it’s okay to feel like this, but next year, we are back.”

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The entire Mercedes garage is brimming with confidence. Let’s hope this confidence translates into competitive machinery for 2023.