Former Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell believes Lewis Hamilton has been rejuvenated this season. Hamilton recently ended his 16-month drought without a podium finish, coming in third at the Chinese Grand Prix. This was his first podium since joining Ferrari in 2025. Hamilton has also been more competitive with his teammate Charles Leclerc, having struggled with the previous generation of F1 cars.
Mansell thinks the new regulations suit Hamilton's 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 what he's doing," Mansell said. Hamilton attributes his return to form to better preparation of his mind and body.
When he joined Ferrari last year, the car wasn't built with his input, and it didn't suit his driving style. However, he worked with the engineers and simulator to develop this year's car, incorporating elements he requested. Mansell, who was involved in several title fights before becoming world champion in 1992, thinks this year's F1 Drivers' Championship could become a two-horse race between Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. Mansell advises Russell to use his experience to win the intra-team battle, saying, "George is a great driver, but sometimes it's how the chips fall.
You've got to lead by incredible focus."