Lewis is hot favourite but Max is ready - Nigel Mansell

Former F1 world champion Nigel Mansell believes that Lewis Hamilton will be the hot favourite to retain his driver's title in 2018, but added that Max Verstappen is 'ready' to challenge the Brit and push him all the way in the season ahead.

The bookmakers concur with Mansell in making Hamilton the Even-money favourite to emerge triumphant, with Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel regarded as his closest challenger.

But while Mansell feels that Hamilton will be the man to beat, he has identified Verstappen as the man who could make life difficult for the rest of the grid and fully expects the Dutchman to earn his fair share of wins.

He told Sky Sports: "Lewis' strength is the team, Mercedes. 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.

"I hope Sebastian Vettel gets over his little challenges in 2017 and we can have an absolutely fantastic year. Red Bull should be challenging. Daniel Ricciardo is a marvellous driver and Max Verstappen is ready to try and win his first world championship."

Mansell also added the importance of Hamilton maintaining his drive in the season ahead, particularly in the wake of his decision to distance himself from social media after an incident on his Instagram involving his nephew.

He said: "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."