A Stronger Start for the Seven-Time Champion
== Lewis Hamilton, now in his second season with Ferrari, appears to have found a renewed sense of purpose, according to former Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell. Following a difficult initial year with the Italian outfit, Mansell observes that Hamilton is "reinvigorated" and "fired up again" during the early rounds of the 2026 Formula 1 season. This improved form is marked by a closer pace to teammate Charles Leclerc, a significant contrast to his struggles last year with the previous car generation. The current regulations, it seems, are aligning better with Hamilton's driving style. Mansell has not discounted the possibility of Hamilton securing a race victory this season.
The focus for Ferrari in the previous year was on developing this season's car, a strategy that seems to be bearing fruit. This renewed competitiveness comes as Formula 1 gears up for a Sprint weekend in Miami, scheduled for May 1-3.
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Hopes for an Eighth Title and a Resurgent Career
"Lewis will give him definitely more motivation. It’s so exciting for him and Ferrari." - Nigel Mansell
Nigel Mansell has voiced a desire to see Lewis Hamilton conclude his illustrious career with an eighth world championship title. With other prominent British drivers, such as reigning champion Lando Norris, having many years ahead of them, Mansell feels it's the right time for Hamilton to achieve this milestone. He has described Hamilton's career as "brilliant" and his current efforts as "fantastic."
Mansell also touched upon the dynamics within George Russell's team, suggesting that Russell needs to assert dominance over his younger teammate, Kimi Antonelli, if he aims for championship success.
Past Predictions and Cautious Optimism
Mansell's current assessment builds on earlier sentiments. In March 2025, he expressed strong backing for Hamilton's move to Ferrari, predicting an "amazing year to watch." He believed the Maranello team would provide Hamilton with the necessary resources to achieve his goals, particularly a record-breaking eighth championship, a feat he himself accomplished at the age of 39.
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However, his views have also carried a note of caution. In July 2025, Mansell raised concerns about Ferrari's performance trajectory, noting that Hamilton, at 40, was still seeking his first conventional podium finish with the team. Despite these occasional setbacks, Ferrari has remained in contention near the top of the standings.
In September 2024, Mansell defended Hamilton against what he termed "totally unfair" criticism, particularly concerning a two-year victory drought. He emphasized the unique experience of driving for Ferrari, suggesting Hamilton would feed off the team's historic significance and that the move would reignite his motivation. Mansell even backed Hamilton to potentially win his debut race for Ferrari, a scenario he compared to his own success.
Keywords: Lewis Hamilton, Nigel Mansell, Ferrari, 2026 Formula 1 season, Charles Leclerc
