LEWIS HAMILTON’S Mercedes team have rubbished reports their 2022 F1 car failed the FIA’s crash tests. All F1 teams are required to submit their cars to stringent safety checks, including side-impact stiffness. The new rules for this season mean the minimum weight of an F1 car has been increased to 795kg to allow for a stronger structure. Merc will launch their car on February 18, just five days before pre-season testing begins in Barcelona. Hamilton will be in attendance at the virtual launch next month after the controversial end to the 2021 season. New Merc driver George Russell will also be present for his first day as a Mercedes driver after replacing Valteri Bottas, but all eyes will be on Hamilton.

Follow MotorMouth on social media:

• 
• 
• 
•