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Peter Bonnington went from working with a veteran in Lewis Hamilton to a talented, yet inexperienced veteran in Kimi Antonelli.
However, the youngster managed to add an important experience to his CV, as Antonelli won the Chinese Grand Prix, the first race win of his career.
Lewis Hamilton congratulated Antonelli on the career milestone after he managed to earn his own first podium since leaving Mercedes to join Ferrari.
A maiden Grand Prix win for Kimi Antonelli, as well as a first podium appearance for Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari! 🍾
What was your favourite moment of Antonelli's debut win?
Antonelli was on another level in Shanghai, putting on arguably the best performance of his career, despite a hiccup late in the race.
Peter Bonnington was on the podium with Kimi Antonelli and Lewis Hamilton, two drivers with whom he’s worked very closely. And the experience he’s had with both of them is night and day.
READ MORE: Max Verstappen makes exciting Kimi Antonelli prediction after his maiden Formula 1 victory
Peter Bonnington had to ‘re-remember’ key practices after working with Kimi Antonelli
Peter Bonnington spoke to Sky Sports F1 after the Chinese Grand Prix about his experience working with both Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Antonelli.
While Hamilton’s experience led to brief exchanges, Bonnington has to be more hands-on with Antonelli due to his lack of experience. However, he praised Kimi for bringing a great energy to Mercedes.
“It’s chalk and cheese with Lewis. I knew what he was thinking, I knew that he didn’t need to be told, whereas when I started with Kimi, it was a case of, I don’t know what he doesn’t know.”
“So I’m having to re-remember loads of stuff that I took for granted, and so that was a good sort of process for myself. Kimi just brings a completely different vibe.”
“He’s obviously still so young, but full of energy, really likes to bring the garage together. He’s always there with the pranks, but equally, he knows when to knuckle down and work hard.”
READ MORE: Toto Wolff admits Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes drivers sharing China podium is a career highlight
Some sensational performances in Shanghai 🔥 Who is your pick for Driver of the Day at the Chinese Grand Prix?
Kimi Antonelli’s father unsure if he can compete with George Russell for a championship
Kimi Antonelli’s father, Marco, was asked about his chances of competing with George Russell for the driver’s championship this season.
He noted that Kimi’s lack of experience and sharpness on the track could hold him back. On top of that George’s skill and experience in the sport could make him a mountain too tall for Antonelli at this point in his career.
“I don’t know, honestly. Kimi is young, and I think he’s not perfect at this moment.”
“He’s good, of course, but experience is very important, and George is a super driver with lots of experience. It’s difficult to beat him.”
While Antonelli isn’t necessarily eyeing a championship just yet, he is the closest to George Russell in the driver standings, and he could make things very interesting near the end of the season.
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