Mansell urges Hamilton 'to keep his focus'

Lewis Hamilton

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Nigel Mansell says Lewis Hamilton needs to put his latest social media issues behind him and focus on the great opportunities which lie ahead.

As Hamilton continues to lay low following a massive wave of criticism about his behavior on social media, Mansell hopes the Mercedes driver gets his mindset together and sets his sights on the formidable challenges which await the four-time world champion.

"What I would encourage Lewis and his fans to get across, he has an incredible opportunity to set new records," Mansell told Sky Sports News at the Autosport International Show last weekend.

"You're in the best team with the best car, there isn't the depth of competition there used to be, make hay when the sun shines. Just like Michael Schumacher did for three or four years.

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"I really hope Lewis keeps his focus. The other problems will go away. Lewis is a fabulous driver and you get him on a good day and everyone understands him, we love it. We really do.

"Everyone is entitled to have some difficult days, there is a lot of pressure on him and I hope he has a wonderful year."

Hamilton and arch-rival Sebastian Vettel are now on equal level when it comes to world titles, but Mansell still believes his countryman has a slight edge over the German, and will move ahead.

"Lewis' strength is the team, Mercedes," added the 1992 world champion.

"The depth and capacity of the Mercedes team is second to none in Formula 1.

"This year let's hope a few more teams are pitching in there but, for me, Lewis is hot favourite for getting another championship in 2018."

But Mansell is also hoping for a competitive year and a battle royal among the front-running big guns.

"I hope Sebastian Vettel gets over his little challenges in 2017 and we can have an absolutely fantastic year," said Mansell, who raced for Ferrari in 1989 and 1990.

"Red Bull should be challenging. Daniel Ricciardo is a marvellous driver and Max Verstappen is ready to try and win his first world championship."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.