F1 champion pleads with Lewis Hamilton for 'romantic' title

Nigel Mansell has revealed his fervent hope that Lewis Hamilton can secure a record-breaking eighth world championship with Ferrari, describing his wish as "romantic" in an interview with Sky Sports F1.

The 1992 drivers' champion acknowledged that Hamilton faces stiff competition from younger rivals such as McLaren's Lando Norris, but believes the 41-year-old deserves to add to his tally of seven titles before he retires.

Hamilton endured a torrid 2025 campaign in his first year at Ferrari, finishing sixth in the championship without a single grand prix podium.

However, the seven-time drivers' champion has enjoyed a stronger start to 2026 with a podium finish in China and currently sits fourth in the standings.

Ferrari's improved performance this season has given Hamilton renewed hope of challenging for victories, though the Italian team still appears to be playing catch-up to Mercedes' early-season pace advantage.

While Ferrari and McLaren have shown flashes of competitiveness, Mercedes has emerged as the early frontrunner in 2026, with their Silver Arrows looking particularly strong in the opening races.

This dynamic could prove crucial as Hamilton seeks to add to his championship tally in what many expect to be one of his final seasons in Formula 1.

"I'm going to be romantic," Mansell told Sky Sports F1. "I'd like Lewis to do it. Lando has got so many years ahead of him; he can do it again.

"But yeah, I mean, come on, Lewis! It's special. You've done so many things, mate. Let's just finish it off."

Hamilton eyes historic Silverstone milestone

Mansell, who won four British Grands Prix at Silverstone during his own career, also backed Hamilton to claim a 10th home victory when the championship arrives at the Northamptonshire circuit in July.

When asked whether Hamilton getting a 10th home grand prix win at Silverstone was now a possibility, Mansell replied: "Odds on, odds on.

"Lewis is fired up again. Lewis has had a brilliant career, and it's fantastic what he's doing.

"He's now reinvigorated. Ferrari has done a fabulous job over the winter. They're there or thereabouts, Mercedes are the forerunners, and McLaren is going to be there too."

He added: "But I think when they [F1 and the FIA] tweak the regulations, and by the time we get to Silverstone, I think it'll be very close.

"And I'm hoping for an epic race. There's a number of... six or seven drivers that can win, which is lovely."