Former Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell believes Lewis Hamilton has regained his competitive edge this season. Hamilton recently ended a 16-month drought without an F1 podium finish by taking third place at the Chinese Grand Prix, marking his first rostrum finish since joining Ferrari in 2025. The 41-year-old has also narrowed the gap with his teammate Charles Leclerc in terms of pace, a significant improvement from the previous year.
Mansell attributes Hamilton's resurgence to the new regulations, which seem to favor his driving style. The 1992 F1 world champion notes that Hamilton is "fired up again" and could potentially win a race this season. Hamilton credits his improved performance to better preparation and the fact that Ferrari has done a "fabulous job" over the winter.
He also expresses gratitude that the team has incorporated some of the changes he requested, which have positively impacted his driving. Meanwhile, Mansell thinks George Russell needs to utilize his experience to win the intra-team battle against Kimi Antonelli, who currently leads the championship standings.