Nigel Mansell believes Hamilton will shine in first Ferrari outing

Legendary former Formula 1 champion Nigel Mansell is throwing his support behind Lewis Hamilton as the seven-time world champion gears up for his first race with Ferrari. Mansell, who famously won his debut race for Ferrari, believes Hamilton could replicate this remarkable feat as he transitions from Mercedes to Ferrari.

Hamilton's much-anticipated move will see him don the iconic red suit for the first time at the Australian Grand Prix in March.

Discussing the transition with ESPN, Mansell, the 1992 world champion, expressed his excitement for Hamilton: "I think it's absolutely brilliant," he said. "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."

For Mansell, who enjoyed a celebrated run with Ferrari from 1989 to 1990, earning the nickname 'Il Leone' (The Lion) for his tenacious driving, joining Ferrari is like stepping into a unique club in motorsport. He commented, "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."

Reflecting on his own experience, Mansell added, "The fans are just incredible. It was one of the most magical moments of my life to win first time out for them."

With the powerhouses of Mercedes, Red Bull, Ferrari, and McLaren all at the top of their game, Mansell predicts that the upcoming season could be one of the most significant in Formula 1 history. All eyes are now on Melbourne, where Hamilton will aim to join an elite roster of Ferrari drivers, including Juan Manuel Fangio, Mario Andretti, Kimi Raikkonen, and Fernando Alonso, who triumphed in their first races for the famous Italian team.

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