Mansell Backs Hamilton to Shine at Ferrari, Predicts ‘Amazing Year’ for F1

Formula 1, Pre-testing, Nigel Mansell, Lewis Hamilton

Former Ferrari driver Nigel Mansell has thrown his support behind Lewis Hamilton after the seven-time World Champion’s “absolutely brilliant” move to the Ferrari Scuderia in 2025.

Hamilton’s Move to Ferrari: A Historic Shift

The British racing icon believes Hamilton has what it takes to succeed at the iconic Italian team, officially making the switch at the start of the year with an emotional visit to their Maranello headquarters.

Outings in older Ferrari machinery soon followed, before Hamilton got his first taste of the squad’s new challenger in a private run at Fiorano and at last week’s official pre-season test in Bahrain.

Speaking in the Sakhir desert, Hamilton explained how he was “really enjoying” his time behind the wheel of the SF-25, with his “sole focus” being to win at Ferrari.

Mansell, speaking before those outings at the F1 75 Live launch event in London, reckons his experienced fellow Briton has what it takes to write another chapter of success in the sport.

“He’s still at the top of his game,” Mansell said in a recent interview. “Ferrari is a team with immense history, and I think Lewis has the mentality and talent to thrive there. It’s going to be a fantastic spectacle for fans around the world.”

ferrari
Hamilton hit the track in his first Ferrari F1 car during pre-season testing in Bahrain last week

What Hamilton Brings to Ferrari

Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari is expected to inject fresh energy into the team, which has been chasing its first drivers’ championship since Kimi Räikkönen’s triumph in 2007. His technical expertise, racecraft, and ability to galvanize a team could be exactly what Ferrari needs to return to the pinnacle of F1.

Mansell emphasized that Hamilton’s leadership will be crucial: “When you have someone of Lewis’s caliber, it lifts the entire organization. The challenge will be great, but that’s what champions thrive on.”

A Thrilling 2025 Season Ahead

With Hamilton’s move shaking up the driver grid, Mansell expects the 2025 season to be one of the most exciting in years. He highlighted the increased competition between Ferrari, Red Bull, Mercedes, and McLaren as key ingredients for an electrifying championship battle.

“This is exactly what F1 needs—a mix of experience, young talent, and historic rivalries coming to life again,” Mansell added. “Fans should buckle up for a truly spectacular season.”

With Ferrari’s continuous push for improvement and Hamilton’s hunger for an eighth world title, 2025 could be a defining year in Formula 1 history. If Mansell’s predictions hold true, we’re in for a thrilling ride.