Mansell hopes luck stays with Hamilton

Mansell's tally of 31 victories had made him the British driver with most Formula One wins, but with Hamilton already so successful in his rookie season that record could come under threat over the next few years.

"I love it. I love it," said Mansell, who drove a BMW Sauber at the team's Pit Lane Park at Silverstone this weekend.

"Records are only benchmarks, they are there to be beaten. The record to be taken away is not mine, but Michael Schumacher's. I never thought I'd see (Juan Manuel) Fangio's five-time world titles beaten. But it was blown out the door."

Mansell is convinced that Hamilton can go on to become champion this year, thinking that only bad luck will prevent him triumphing.

"I have no doubts," said Mansell. "If lady luck keeps shining on him and McLaren deliver the goods then I can't see someone beating him unless something goes wrong.

"He's a thoroughbred racer, he races, and that's what I like about him. He's got a cool head on his shoulders - he acts like he is 32 and not 22.
 
"He's doing a marvellous job and doesn't know anything else than winning. He's been groomed through the formulas he's driven in, and I for one am a fan."

Mansell is convinced that the rivalry between Hamilton and teammate Fernando Alonso will not manifest itself in a difficult intra-team relationship like that which happened between himself and Nelson Piquet when they were at Williams.

"I was a racer and Lewis is like that too and that's why I like him. I see his driving style on the track and he wants to win and make things happen. I think that's refreshing for motorsport and I don't think he's a political animal at all.

"I think Lewis has brought a lot of fresh air to Formula One, and I think to be on the podium on every single race is fantastic. McLaren have done a great job. I hope lady luck stays with him."