Antonelli blown away by Hamilton’s massive backing after maiden F1 win

The seven-time world champion heaped praise on the young Italian driver after his victory, which put Italy back on the top step of the podium for the first time in twenty years, even sharing an Instagram post featuring a selfie the two took together during the press conference.

Speaking to Italian media upon returning from the Shanghai trip, Antonelli was keen to return the kind words towards the Briton: “Honestly I think that’s the photo of the year, the one with Lewis. First of all, it was the enthusiasm he showed towards me after the victory. It was really nice of him.

“He has always supported me, ever since he moved to Ferrari and I joined Mercedes, so we have a really great relationship. It’s special, especially with a champion like him.”

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Riccardo Patrese suggested Russell now has far more to think about following Antonelli’s breakthrough performance. According to the former driver, the Briton has considerably less reason to feel comfortable after what unfolded over the weekend, and may now start asking himself a few difficult questions.

Patrese pointed out that while Russell had always known Antonelli was talented, he might not have expected the young Italian to produce such a commanding display so early in his career.

Antonelli’s race in China stood out for its composure and control, as he avoided mistakes, managed his tyres effectively and kept the situation firmly under control. The way he handled the race also hinted that he still had extra pace in reserve, even if Russell had managed to close the gap - something that, in Patrese’s view, could leave the Mercedes driver slightly concerned moving forward.