Former Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell believes Lewis Hamilton has regained his competitive edge this season. Hamilton recently ended a 16-month podium drought with a third-place finish 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 teammate Charles Leclerc, having struggled with the previous generation of F1 cars. Mansell attributes Hamilton's resurgence to the new regulations, which seem to favor his driving style, and doesn't rule out the possibility of Hamilton winning a race this season.
"Lewis is fired up again, and it's fantastic to see him performing at such a high level," Mansell told Sky Sports News. Hamilton has credited his improved form to better preparation and the fact that Ferrari has made significant strides over the winter. He noted that last year's car wasn't suited to his driving style, but the new car has incorporated some of the changes he requested.
Mansell, who had his share of intense title battles, including against Nelson Piquet in the 1980s, thinks this year's F1 Drivers' Championship could become a two-horse race between Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. He advises Russell to use his experience to win the intra-team battle, saying, "George is a great driver, but sometimes it's about having the right focus and a bit of luck." With the Miami Grand Prix approaching, the season is set to heat up, and Mansell believes it will be exciting to watch.