Mercedes announces launch date for 2022 charger

©Mercedes

Reigning F1 world champions Mercedes will roll out their 2022 charger – the W13 – on February 18, a day after Ferrari and a week days ahead of the start of F1 pre-season testing in Barcelona.

Silverstone circuit will serve as the backdrop for the team's presentation, with the event hosted digitally ahead of the car's initial shakedown at the British track.

Mercedes' new car has been designed to Formula 1's all-new technical regulations, but beyond the W13's fresh concept, the Brackley squad is also expected to revert to its historical silver arrow livery.

Read also: Andretti warns Hamilton against doing himself "a disservice"

Lewis Hamilton has yet to confirm his presence on the grid in 2022 following last month's controversial epilogue in Abu Dhabi, but few believe the Briton will throw in the towel and shy away from an opportunity to conquer a record eight world crown that would put him alone at the top of F1's pyramid of world champions.

But as he guns for glory, Hamilton will need to contend with the ambitions of his talented new Mercedes teammate, George Russell.

The 23-year-old was promoted to the plum seat previously occupied by Valtteri Bottas after an impressive three-year apprenticeship with Williams.

As a team, Mercedes will be gunning in 2022 for another record ninth world Constructors' championship.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.