New Mercedes livery shows ‘we mean business’ says Hamilton, as he vows to get back to winning ways in 2023

Lewis Hamilton says he’s “ready to do what’s necessary to win” in 2023 after he endured the first season in his F1 career without a victory last year.

Hamilton's Mercedes team pulled the covers off their new W14 car during a special presentation at Silverstone on Wednesday, with the team going back to the black colour scheme they used during the 2020 and 2021 seasons – this time via exposed carbon fibre for weight-saving purposes.

FIRST LOOK: Mercedes go back to black with new W14 for 2023 F1 season

After taking his first look at the car, Hamilton expressed optimism that it can return Mercedes to the front of the F1 grid, after a challenging 2022 campaign that ended their lengthy title-winning run.

It also yielded just one pole position and race win, both claimed by Hamilton’s team mate, George Russell, meaning the 38-year-old failed to stand on the top step of the podium across a season for the first time in his F1 career.

Speaking at the W14’s launch, Hamilton said: “I have been a part of this team for over a decade and the efforts of everyone never cease to amaze me. I find it inspiring how diligently and passionately each person approaches their work.

“To see the evolution of the car and the changes that have been made is fascinating. We’ve redesigned, optimised, and innovated so many parts of the car and that is impressive. And I love the new livery! It says, ‘we mean business’.”

GALLERY: Take a closer look at the Mercedes W14 2023 F1 car and livery

As for how he is feeling after the winter break, Hamilton added: “I’m excited to go racing again. I feel calm, energised, and have my focus sharpened. I’m ready to do what’s necessary to win.”

Hamilton heads into the new season looking to claim the outright record for F1 world titles, with the Briton and Michael Schumacher tied on seven championships apiece.