Antonelli reacts to bizarre Shanghai podium slip-up after 'Kimi Raikkonen' mix-up

The Chinese Grand Prix weekend was all but perfect for the Italian, aside from one amusing slip-up that wasn’t his fault but the Shanghai circuit announcer’s, who mistakenly called out Kimi Raikkonen’s name when introducing the race winner on the podium, sparking confusion and laughter all around.

Speaking to Sport Mediaset, the Mercedes driver, now the second-youngest race winner in Formula 1 history, reacted while speaking to Sport Mediaset: "I couldn’t believe it, I didn’t know whether to go up on the podium or not, I was completely confused,"

Antonelli also revealed he had received congratulatory messages following his victory from some of Italy’s biggest sporting icons, including skier Alberto Tomba and Jannik Sinner: "It was really special to receive congratulations from great champions who have written the history of Italian sport. Tomba sent me a message, but what meant the most to me was seeing Jannik Sinner dedicate his victory to me. That truly made me emotional."

In a video shared on Mercedes’ social media channels, Rosberg congratulated Antonelli on securing his maiden victory, admitting he felt genuinely emotional watching a driver he had supported during his junior career reach such a milestone.

The 2016 world champion highlighted how long the two have known each other, praising Antonelli’s development and describing the win as fully deserved. He also pointed to the similarities with his own career, recalling how he too claimed his first Formula 1 victory in China and noting that they now share a place among the select group of Mercedes race winners.

Rosberg added that Antonelli finds himself in an excellent position with a highly competitive car, something he vividly remembers from his own time with the team. He closed by wishing him the best for the upcoming races, backing both him and the team for what promises to be an exciting season.