Karun Chandhok compares Lewis Hamilton to Nigel Mansell after Ferrari switch amid power of fans
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Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari has become one of the most talked-about stories of the 2025 Formula 1 season, with the seven-time world champion looking to further enhance his already impressive legacy in the sport. The Brit has spent the past two months immersing himself in preparations for his first race with the iconic Italian team, taking part in testing sessions in older Ferrari cars at the Fiorano test track. Afterward, Hamilton had the chance to get behind the wheel of Ferrari's SF-25 for the first time, before heading to Bahrain for the official pre-season F1 testing.
Although Lewis Hamilton’s performance during the test drew mixed reactions from fans due to his limited race runs and relatively underwhelming qualifying pace, the driver seemed to quickly adapt to the feel of the new car. While Ferrari had to halt his race run on the final day due to a telemetry anomaly, the main objective of the three-day test was for Hamilton to familiarize himself with the team's operational procedures at the track.
Ahead of the 2025 season opener at the 5.278-kilometre Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit in Melbourne, Karun Chandhok offered his insight into Hamilton’s upcoming first year with Ferrari, particularly focusing on the unique factor that could propel him to success within the team. Speaking on *The F1 Show* podcast, the former Formula 1 driver drew an interesting comparison between Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari legend Nigel Mansell, pointing out a key similarity that could prove beneficial for the British driver in the upcoming F1 campaign.
The F1 broadcaster believes that, much like Nigel Mansell did during his time with the Maranello team , the Briton’s connection with the fans—especially the passionate Tifosi—will play a crucial role in his motivation and performance. He noted that Lewis Hamilton's first official appearance in Ferrari red at the F1 75 launch in London was met with an overwhelming reception from the British crowd, and the Tifosi showed their immense support during Lewis Hamilton's first test at Fiorano.
This kind of fan energy, according to Karun Chandhok, is something that will drive the Briton throughout the season. He highlighted how Nigel Mansell often claimed that the support of the British fans gave him an extra half a second per lap at Silverstone. Karun Chandhok believes that Hamilton will experience a similar boost in energy and performance, powered by the passionate and loyal fanbase of Ferrari, which could be a defining factor in his 2025 campaign. With this unwavering support, Hamilton's Ferrari journey could be set for an exciting and successful season ahead.
Nigel Chandhok reflected on the images of Lewis Hamilton's arrival in Maranello, noting the bridge full of Tifosi eagerly waiting to see his first lap. He mentioned that he had seen similar pictures during the Milan tour. He pointed out that they had often discussed how Hamilton shares similarities with Nigel Mansell, particularly how both thrive on the support and admiration of the fans. Chandhok highlighted how Hamilton tends to rise to the occasion at the British Grand Prix, and he believed that Ferrari's warm embrace, along with the excitement of the Italian team and its fans, would provide Lewis Hamilton with a great deal of energy for the upcoming season.
Martin Brundle Predicts Multiple Wins for Lewis Hamilton with Ferrari in 2025
Lewis Hamilton, the record-holder for the most races with a single team, having spent 12 years at Mercedes and clinched six world titles, is set for a new chapter with Ferrari in 2025. As the British driver transitions into this exciting new phase of his career, Martin Brundle has made a bold prediction about Hamilton's performance with the Scuderia.
Martin Brundle believes that the British driver will secure more than one victory during his first season with the Italian side. Despite the Maranello team's challenging start to the 2025 season, Ferrari finished the 2024 campaign on a high note, which suggests they have the potential to remain competitive. However, Ferrari is expected to face some challenges during the mid-season FIA rule changes, which are set to be enforced at the Spanish Grand Prix. This regulation shift could impact their development and performance in the latter part of the season.
Overall, McLaren is expected to be the team to beat in 2025, with their current form positioning them as strong contenders. Max Verstappen, too, believes McLaren could be the only team truly challenging for the title, given their recent improvements. Yet, with a 24-race calendar ahead, much can change, and if the right updates are brought to the cars, the title battle could still shift in unexpected directions.
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