Lewis Hamilton swiftly silenced critics who had prematurely written him off. Despite a challenging start to the season where he sacrificed the first half experimenting with radical set-up solutions for the W13, which ultimately didn’t unlock the expected potential, Hamilton and Mercedes regrouped.

The team made significant changes to the W14, creating a more predictable car that, while not as fast as the Red Bull, allowed Hamilton to showcase his exceptional talent.

Facing challenges from his teammate George Russell, Hamilton displayed his trademark quick, consistent, and relentless driving style. Despite the car not being a race winner, Hamilton secured seven podium finishes, highlighting that his speed and skill remained formidable. The championship battle with Red Bull’s Sergio Pérez continued until the final races, showcasing Hamilton’s determination.

However, frustrations emerged, leading to a couple of atypical incidents, notably the first-corner clash with Russell in Qatar. This incident marked the beginning of the end for Hamilton’s bid for second place in the championship. Despite this setback, Hamilton’s podium finishes underscored his resilience and the fact that he is still a force to be reckoned with.

While he may have bowed to the inevitable towards the end of the season, Hamilton’s performance indicated that he remains a potent contender, ready to capitalize on any opportunity when Mercedes provides him with a winning car. The 2022 season may not have resulted in championship glory, but Hamilton’s enduring speed and competitive spirit hint at future successes if the right machinery is at his disposal.