Mercedes have reiterated that Lewis Hamilton will drive for them in 2022 despite uncertainty continuing over Michael Masi’s future in F1. There has been constant speculation whether Hamilton will continue in the sport following the dramatic end to last season. It has been claimed that the Brit wanted a decision to be made over the future of FIA race director Masi before confirming his participation this year.
Masi controversially only ordered the lapped cars between Hamilton and Max Verstappen to overtake the duo in the last race of 2021.
Verstappen took advantage and sped past the seven-time world champion on the final lap to win his first title.
Masi has come under severe criticism for his decision in the months that have passed.
Hamilton took a break from social media for two months in the aftermath as he took a step back from F1.
He returned to Instagram last week but still did not confirm he would be racing this year.
Mercedes confirmed on Monday that their No 44 was ‘back,’ ending months of speculation around Hamilton’s future.
And now they have reiterated that the seven-time champion will be lining up alongside new team-mate George Russell in 2022 for his 16th season in the sport.
Mercedes posted a tweet on Wednesday afternoon with a picture of Hamilton in front of a black and white Union Jack, with the words: “Year 16”.
Hamilton began his F1 career at McLaren in 2007 before moving to Mercedes from the 2013 season.
Masi has come under increased pressure for not applying rules correctly following the deployment of the safety car.
Mercedes chief Toto Wolff fumed at Masi at the time on team radio.
Hamilton was claimed to be “disillusioned” by the outcome of the race, which led to speculation over his future.
However, he will be at his team’s car launch on Friday and he is set to stay in the sport in an attempt to overtake Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world titles.
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