Hamilton returns to Mercedes factory ahead of 2022 F1 season

According to the BBC, Hamilton has been back at the team’s base in Brackley as preparations for Mercedes’ car launch and pre-season get underway.

Hamilton ended his social media silence on Saturday following a controversial end to the season in Abu Dhabi after his title defeat to Max Verstappen.

Mercedes and Hamilton disagreed with how the closing laps to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was handled by race director Michael Masi. 

Even though Mercedes’ subsequent protest was unsuccessful, the FIA has launched its own inquiry into the events at the Yas Marina Circuit. 

The findings are set to be presented to the F1 Commission on February 14.

The controversy has put Hamilton’s future into question with the 37-year-old waiting to see the outcome of the investigation, particularly the future of race director Michael Masi.

Mercedes goes into 2022 on the back of winning the last eight constructors’ championships.

George Russell replaces Valtteri Bottas in the second Mercedes after earning his promotion with Williams. 

Mercedes will launch the W13 on February 18 in an online event ahead of pre-season testing in Barcelona on February 23.