Nigel Mansell Backs Lewis Hamilton for...

Nigel Mansell Backs Lewis Hamilton for…see more

Former Formula 1 champion Nigel Mansell has expressed his support for Lewis Hamilton, backing the seven-time world champion to secure a victory in his debut race for Ferrari. Hamilton’s highly anticipated first outing with the iconic Italian team will take place at the Australian Grand Prix in March, and Mansell believes the Briton has what it takes to triumph immediately.

Mansell himself is part of an exclusive club of world champions who have won on their Ferrari debuts. This elite group includes legendary drivers such as Juan Manuel Fangio, Mario Andretti, Kimi Räikkönen, and Fernando Alonso. Having accomplished the feat himself in 1989, Mansell hopes Hamilton will follow in his footsteps by securing a victory in his first race with the Scuderia.

In an interview with ESPN, the 1992 world champion praised Hamilton’s move from Mercedes to Ferrari, calling it a brilliant decision at the perfect time. “Lewis has done something absolutely amazing. If not the greatest, I think he is the greatest ever,” Mansell said. “I hope he wins first time out like I did, because that’s a magical moment—to win your first race with a new team. Ferrari is right at the top of their game.”

Mansell also highlighted the current state of competition in Formula 1, emphasizing that the 2025 season could be one of the most thrilling in history. With top teams like Mercedes, Red Bull, Ferrari, and McLaren all in strong form, the battle for supremacy is expected to be intense. “The timing is perfect,” Mansell added. “It could be the most momentous year in Formula 1.”

During his time at Ferrari in 1989 and 1990, Mansell became a beloved figure among the passionate Italian fanbase. His aggressive and fearless driving style earned him the nickname ‘Il Leone’ (The Lion), and he vividly remembers the incredible atmosphere surrounding the team. According to Mansell, Hamilton is about to experience something truly unique in the world of motorsport.

“Driving for Ferrari is like nothing else,” he explained. “A lot of people go and visit the Pope, but the Pope goes to visit Ferrari! When Ferrari wins, all the church bells ring. That doesn’t happen in any other country. The fans are just incredible.”

Mansell reflected on his own experience with Ferrari, calling his debut victory one of the most special moments of his career. “It was one of the most magical moments of my life to win first time out for them,” he recalled. “The support, the energy, the passion—it’s something that stays with you forever.”

With Hamilton joining Ferrari, expectations are sky-high for the British driver.