Nigel Mansell gives his five-word verdict on Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari at the British Grand Prix

Follow us on Google Discover

Nigel Mansell is among the select group of British drivers in the modern era of Formula 1 to race for Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton is the latest driver to add his name to that list, following on from rookie Oliver Bearman after his infamous F1 debut for Ferrari at last year’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Hamilton headed into the 12th race of the season at the British Grand Prix still waiting for his first podium for the Scuderia.

He won the Sprint Race in China and finished third in the shortened format in Miami, but Ferrari’s struggles have hampered the seven-time world champion more than his teammate Charles Leclerc.

Ferrari believe they have a rear suspension solution arriving soon, but only time will tell whether it will make the necessary difference.

Nigel Mansell is another British driver who has experienced the highs and lows of racing for Italy’s adopted Formula 1 team.

He explained on the grid at Silverstone how he feels Hamilton is faring during his maiden season at Ferrari.

READ MORE: Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton’s life outside F1 from net worth to family

Nigel Mansell thinks Lewis Hamilton is ‘gaining momentum’ at Ferrari this season

Mansell was interviewed as part of Martin Brundle’s grid walk on Sky Sports F1 (6/7 2:39 pm) and was asked about Hamilton’s start to life at Maranello.

The 1992 F1 world champion explained: “I think he’s gaining momentum. He could win here today, he’s got an outside chance.

“Lando’s doing a fantastic job, Oscar is too, I mean, there are so many people, and George Russell.

“It’s going to be a great race, and don’t forget Max Verstappen, what a fantastic pole he had yesterday.”

Hamilton was sixth in the drivers’ championship heading into the race at Silverstone, 28 points behind Leclerc.

However, he had outqualified his teammate three out of the last four races, even if his race pace hasn’t been at the same level as Leclerc just yet.

READ MORE: All you need to know about Scuderia Ferrari from team principal to factory

How did Nigel Mansell perform during his time as a Ferrari Formula 1 driver?

Mansell made his Formula 1 debut in 1980, signing for Lotus for the final three races of the campaign under legendary team owner Colin Chapman.

He spent four seasons with Lotus before signing for Williams, finishing second in the drivers’ championship in 1986 and 1987.

Mansell felt Williams torpedoed his title chances, which led to him seeking another seat on the grid.

Ferrari brought in Mansell in 1989 to replace Michele Alboreto, winning two races and finishing on the podium on six occasions.

The following season saw Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna’s relationship deteriorate at McLaren, and the Frenchman was brought in to partner Mansell.

Prost accused Mansell of being jealous of him during their season as teammates, and the four-time world champion more than doubled the Brit’s points tally.

Mansell moved back to Williams, leading to him winning his only Formula 1 world championship in 1992.

Hamilton would love to be able to match Mansell’s three wins at Ferrari, given his start to life with the Scuderia.

However, his ultimate goal is to win his eighth championship for the Tifosi, and end their long wait for another title.