F1 2025: Lewis Hamilton replacement Kimi Antonelli shocked by 'weird' Chinese GP verdict

Lewis Hamilton, Kimi Antonelli, Ferrari, Mercedes, Australia, 2025 — Photo: © IMAGO

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Lewis Hamilton replacement Kimi Antonelli shocked by 'weird' Chinese GP verdict

Mercedes broke some exciting news to Kimi Antonelli after the Chinese GP on Sunday

Kerry Violet F1 News Editor

F1 editor and journalist covering motorsport since 2024.

Tuesday 25 March 2025 03:00

Lewis Hamilton's Formula 1 replacement and new Mercedes star Kimi Antonelli could not believe his luck after a shock verdict at the Chinese Grand Prix.

The 18-year-old was awarded Driver of the Day following Sunday's race in Shanghai despite seemingly having a very average race, finishing down in P8 and being promoted to P6 following the disqualification of Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.

The Driver of the Day award is decided by fans across the globe and provides a chance to highlight any unsung heroes throughout a grand prix weekend.

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Antonelli has so far impressed at Mercedes during the early stages of his debut F1 season, securing points at every opportunity to date.

Antonelli wins Chinese GP Driver of the Day

Clearly confused, Antonelli responded: "Me? That's weird,"

Wolff responded, joking: "I think it's your looks and your target group... and obviously the looks of your race engineer also," referring to Peter 'Bono' Bonnington, who was previously Lewis Hamilton's engineer at Mercedes.

Max Verstappen Lewis Hamilton Mercedes Chinese Grand Prix Kimi Antonelli