Former Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell believes Lewis Hamilton has regained his competitive edge this season. Hamilton recently ended a 16-month drought without a podium finish, claiming third place at the Chinese Grand Prix, his first top-three finish since joining Ferrari in 2025.
The 41-year-old has also narrowed the gap with his teammate Charles Leclerc in terms of pace, a significant improvement from the previous year. According to Mansell, the new regulations seem to favor Hamilton's driving style, making a race win a plausible outcome.
"Lewis is fired up again, and it's fantastic to see him performing at this level," Mansell stated. Hamilton credits his improved form to better mental and physical preparation. He noted that the previous year's car was not suited to his driving style, but the new car has incorporated some of the changes he requested. Mansell thinks George Russell needs to utilize his experience to win the intra-team battle against Kimi Antonelli, who currently leads the championship.
The F1 season continues on May 1-3 with the Miami Grand Prix.