According to Nigel Mansell, a former Formula 1 world champion, Lewis Hamilton has regained his competitive edge this season. Hamilton recently ended his 16-month drought without a podium finish in F1, securing third place at the Chinese Grand Prix, which marked his first rostrum finish since joining Ferrari in 2025. The 41-year-old has also been more competitive with his teammate Charles Leclerc in terms of pace, overcoming the struggles he faced with the previous generation of F1 cars. The new regulations seem to favor Hamilton's driving style, and Mansell believes the seven-time world champion could potentially win a race this season.
"Lewis is rejuvenated and fired up again, which is fantastic given his brilliant career," Mansell said in an interview with Sky Sports News. Hamilton has attributed his return to form to better preparation, both mentally and physically. He noted that when he joined Ferrari last year, the car was not designed with his driving style in mind, and there were limitations in terms of budget cap that prevented the implementation of certain changes he requested.
However, this year's car has been a fresh start, and Hamilton has been able to work on the simulator and collaborate with engineers to incorporate some of the changes he desired. Mansell, who was involved in several intense title battles during his career, including those against Nelson Piquet in the 1980s, thinks that this year's F1 Drivers' Championship could become a two-horse race between Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli if they maintain their advantage over the rest of the field.
Mansell advises Russell to use his experience to win the intra-team battle, emphasizing the importance of focus and sometimes having luck on your side. The Formula 1 season will resume on May 1-3 with the Miami Grand Prix, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1.