Mercedes have no more excuses

The Mercedes Grand Prix team have no more excuses according to Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone.

Since their return to Formula One taking over the Brawn GP team in 2010, Mercedes have failed to live up to expectations.

Taking over a team that had just won the Formula One drivers and Constructors championships it took them two years to win another Grand Prix and the much celebrated return of seven-time F1 champion Michael Schumacher was universally seen as a failure.

But for 2013 and specifically 2014 with the engine rules in Formula One, many people in the paddock believe that Mercedes can become a team to contend with the likes of Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren.

For 2013 they have 2008 Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton making the move from McLaren to partner Nico Roserg, whilst Toto Wolff has made the move from Williams to become Mercedes-Benz's new executive director replacing Norbert Haug.

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone believes the changes are a step in the right direction and he believes that they will be contenders for the upcoming season.

'I believe Niki Lauda and Toto Wolff can do it. New people, new thinking.

'They will do the job. Mercedes have the best engine, top drivers, not less budget than other leading teams, so everything would be in place. Ecclestone told Autosport Magazine.

'I would be disappointed if they weren't there up front. There are no more excuses.'

'I believe Mercedes to be much stronger this year because of Lewis [Hamilton]. He will be a contender, And if Mercedes are good, Nico [Rosberg] is there too.