According to Nigel Mansell, a former Formula 1 world champion, Lewis Hamilton has regained his momentum this season. Hamilton recently ended a 16-month drought without an F1 podium by finishing third at the Chinese Grand Prix, marking 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, a significant improvement from last year when he struggled 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 win a race this season. Mansell stated, 'Lewis is fired up again, and it's fantastic to see him performing so well.' 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 wasn't suited to his driving style, but this year's car is a new start, and he's grateful that the team incorporated some of the changes he requested.
Mansell, who was involved in several title fights before becoming world champion in 1992, thinks that 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, emphasizing the importance of focus and authority.