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. Mansell attributes Hamilton's resurgence to the new regulations, which seem to suit his driving style. The 41-year-old Hamilton has also been more competitive with his teammate Charles Leclerc, after struggling with the previous generation of F1 cars.
Mansell thinks Hamilton could win a race this season, saying, 'Lewis is fired up again. He's had a brilliant career, and it's fantastic what he's doing.' Hamilton credits his improved performance to better preparation and the fact that Ferrari has done a 'fabulous job' over the winter. He also feels that the new car is more suited to his driving style, having had input in its development. Mansell, the 1992 F1 world champion, was involved in several intense title battles during his career and believes that this year's 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. Sometimes it's how the chips fall, sometimes you have a bit of luck, and sometimes you don't.
It's a long season, but you've got to lead by incredible focus.'