Hamilton 'encouraged' by Ferrari's improved performances

Mercedes driver says he is not surprised by the Scuderia's progress and expects them to be a major threat in 2023

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has said that he is "encouraged" by the improved performances of Ferrari in recent races, and expects the Scuderia to be a major threat in the 2023 Formula 1 season.

Ferrari have made significant progress in the development of their car since the start of the 2022 season, and have taken two wins in the last three races. Hamilton said that he is not surprised by this progress, and believes that Ferrari have the potential to challenge for the championship next year.

"I think it's great to see Ferrari back at the front," said Hamilton. "They're a great team with a lot of history, and they deserve to be fighting for wins. I'm not surprised by their progress, and I expect them to be a major threat in 2023."

Hamilton also said that he is looking forward to the challenge of racing against Ferrari next season. "It's always exciting to race against the best, and Ferrari are definitely one of the best," said Hamilton. "I'm looking forward to the challenge, and I'm confident that we can beat them."

Ferrari's improved performances

Ferrari have made significant progress in the development of their car since the start of the 2022 season. The team has introduced a number of upgrades to the car, which have improved its performance and reliability.

The most significant upgrade was the introduction of a new power unit at the French Grand Prix. The new power unit has given the Ferrari car a significant boost in power and speed. Ferrari have also introduced a number of aerodynamic upgrades to the car, which have improved its downforce and stability.

As a result of these upgrades, Ferrari have been able to challenge for wins in recent races. The team took a one-two victory at the Belgian Grand Prix, and followed it up with a win at the Dutch Grand Prix. Ferrari are now third in the constructors' championship, and are just 30 points behind Red Bull.

Hamilton's expectations for 2023

Hamilton is expecting Ferrari to be a major threat in the 2023 Formula 1 season. The Mercedes driver believes that Ferrari have the potential to challenge for the championship, and he is looking forward to the challenge of racing against them.