Nigel Mansell Backs Lewis Hamilton For Magical Ferrari Debut Win, Predicts ‘Momentous’ F1 Season

Former Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell has expressed his unwavering support for Lewis Hamilton, backing the British driver to secure a victory in his debut race for Ferrari. Mansell, who himself achieved the feat of winning his first outing with the Scuderia, believes Hamilton has the potential to join an elite group of world champions, including Juan Manuel Fangio, Mario Andretti, Kimi Raikkonen, and Fernando Alonso, who all tasted success in their maiden races wearing the iconic red.

Speaking with ESPN, the 1992 world champion shared his enthusiasm for Hamilton’s move from Mercedes to Ferrari, stating, “I think it’s absolutely brilliant. Lewis has done something absolutely amazing. If not the greatest … I think he is the greatest ever. 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, affectionately known as ‘Il Leone’ (The Lion) by the passionate Italian fans during his stint with Ferrari in 1989 and 1990, believes the timing of Hamilton’s switch is perfect. With Mercedes, Red Bull, Ferrari, and McLaren all vying for supremacy, the 2025 Formula 1 season has the potential to be one of the most thrilling and memorable in the sport’s history. “The timing is perfect. Mercedes, Red Bull, Ferrari and [Mclaren] as well. It could be the most momentous year in Formula 1,” Mansell added.

The former champion also emphasized the unique and special nature of driving for Ferrari, drawing comparisons to the reverence shown to the Pope. “Driving for Ferrari … a lot of people go and visit the Pope. The Pope goes to visit Ferrari! All the church bells ring when Ferrari wins. It doesn’t happen in any other country like that,” Mansell explained, highlighting the unparalleled passion and dedication of the Tifosi.

Recalling his own magical moment of winning his first race for Ferrari, Mansell shared, “The fans are just incredible. It was one of the most magical moments of my life to win first time out for them.” As Hamilton prepares to make his highly-anticipated debut for the Scuderia at the Australian Grand Prix in March, the expectations are high, and the anticipation is palpable…