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Formula 1 icon Nigel Mansell has expressed his admiration for Lewis Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari, describing it as a “magical” step in the seven-time world champion’s illustrious career.
After 18 seasons racing for McLaren and Mercedes, Hamilton will don the famous red of Ferrari in 2025, pairing up with Charles Leclerc in a move that has electrified the F1 world.
Mansell, who made a similar switch from Williams to Ferrari in 1989, understands the unique challenge of representing the sport’s most iconic team. Reflecting on Hamilton’s decision, Mansell told the Daily Mail:
“I think that what Lewis has done by deciding to join Ferrari is the most magical thing he could have done. The team is ultra-competitive. They could go for the championship next year.”
The British driver himself moved to Ferrari after narrowly missing out on the F1 title in 1986 and 1987. However, his two-year stint with the Scuderia yielded mixed results, with Mansell finishing fourth and fifth in the standings before eventually returning to Williams to clinch his only championship in 1992.
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari is set to be one of the sport’s defining storylines next season. Mansell believes the partnership could reignite Hamilton’s championship-winning potential.
“I don’t care what anybody says about Lewis. He is a class act. I have always been a fan of his,” Mansell said. “Some people might see Lewis as an underdog, but I think those people would be making a huge mistake. He’ll surprise everybody.”
Mansell also weighed in on the intra-team battle Hamilton will face against Leclerc, Ferrari’s rising star.
“It won’t be easy going against [Charles] Leclerc, but I think it will be healthy. That said, putting championships together is a different story. Lots of people win races, but consistency is key.”
Mansell believes Hamilton has what it takes to rise to the occasion, adding:
“If Lewis can find his motivation, he has got another championship in him. Easily. Never say never in this game, and next year should be very competitive. Ferrari has done a good job, and I think it will be incredibly exciting.”
As Hamilton departs Mercedes, his second-place finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix might serve as a poignant farewell podium with the team. Now, all eyes turn to 2025, as Ferrari and Hamilton prepare for what could be a historic partnership in Formula 1.
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