According to Nigel Mansell, a former Formula 1 world champion, Lewis Hamilton has regained his momentum this season. Hamilton recently broke his 16-month drought without an F1 podium by finishing third at the Chinese Grand Prix, marking his first rostrum finish since joining Ferrari in 2025.
The 41-year-old driver has also shown significant improvement in pace compared to his teammate Charles Leclerc, a notable change from his struggles with the previous generation of F1 cars. Mansell believes the new regulations this year complement Hamilton's driving style, making it possible for him to win a race. Hamilton attributes his return to form to better mental and physical preparation, as well as improvements to the car that suit his driving style. Mansell notes that Ferrari has done an excellent job over the winter, and with Mercedes and McLaren also being competitive, the season is shaping up to be exciting.
The F1 Drivers' Championship could become a two-horse race between Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, with Mansell advising Russell to use his experience to win the intra-team battle and become world champion.