Nigel Mansell played a significant role in one of Formula 1’s most memorable eras and was involved in many of the storylines discussed in our Bring Back V10s Podcast. We recently had the opportunity to interview Mansell and ask him questions from our listeners. The answers he provided were enlightening and true to his character.
One question asked if he regretted not spending more time in America, potentially winning more titles and even the Indy 500. Mansell explained that regret was not the right word to use. He had initially been happy in IndyCar and even signed a three-year contract. However, Formula 1 wanted him back due to the absence of a world champion. Politics then interfered and circumstances changed, leading Mansell to step aside. He expressed disappointment that his career had been affected in this way.
Another question revolved around Mansell’s performance in the Indy 500. While he did not win the race, he felt that victory had been deliberately taken from him in one instance. Mansell also mentioned a dangerous incident that occurred during his time in the race, highlighting the risks involved in the sport.
There were multiple questions about Mansell’s potential success against Alain Prost at Williams in 1993. Mansell believed he would have easily beaten Prost, but the team did not want him there due to their backing from Renault. Mansell’s contract with Williams ended after winning the world championship, and he was offered a job for half the salary, which he found disappointing.
Mansell briefly participated in the British Touring Car Championship in 1998 but did not continue for long. He described the experience as a “fill-in type thing” and expressed disappointment in the manufacturer pulling funding after a successful race.
When asked if he could have beaten Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill to the 1995 title if Williams had signed him, Mansell pointed out that he had already proven himself in 1994. He had secured pole position in Australia after driving the car only four times in two years.
Mansell also discussed his potential involvement with Jordan in 1997. While he tested for the team, the offer that may have been available did not meet his expectations. He described the experience as enjoyable but not as he had hoped.
In terms of his favorite car from his Formula 1 career, Mansell chose the Williams FW11B from 1987. He described it as a fantastic car with immense power and a thrilling driving experience.
Mansell expressed openness to having Ayrton Senna as a teammate and mentioned that he had already driven alongside four world champions. However, he emphasized the importance of fair pay in such a scenario.
When asked about his transition from Formula 1 to CART, Mansell had mixed feelings. He acknowledged that Formula 1 was the pinnacle of motorsport but found IndyCar to be a different experience. He mentioned the need to adapt his driving style to the heavy IndyCar and the challenges of racing on circuits that went in the opposite direction.
Mansell shared his emotions after winning his first race with Ferrari in Brazil in 1989. He described it as a minor miracle given the car’s unreliability and expressed pride in the achievement.
Mansell also discussed his involvement with UK Youth, a charity he has been president of since 1999. He spoke highly of the organization’s efforts to inspire and educate young people and emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for those who may be out of education or employment. Mansell expressed pride in the charity’s accomplishments and its commitment to helping all those in need.
In conclusion, Nigel Mansell provided insightful and candid responses to a range of questions about his career and personal life. He reflected on his experiences in Formula 1 and IndyCar, as well as his involvement with UK Youth. Mansell’s dedication to giving back and making a difference was evident throughout the interview.