Antonelli poses as "Peter Bonnington Jr" in Mercedes factory prank

Kimi Antonelli sneaked into a Mercedes factory meeting disguised as his race engineer Peter Bonnington, wearing a blonde wig, glasses, and fake moustache before introducing himself as a "light engineer." The stunt lands as the championship leader looks to rebound from a difficult British Grand Prix where poor communication turned a potential points finish into retirement.

Why it matters:

The prank reveals the team chemistry that has helped Antonelli settle at Mercedes, but it underscores the tightrope he walks between keeping spirits high and staying focused during a title fight. With two retirements in his last three races cutting into his championship lead, every interaction on and off the track carries weight in his battle with his teammate and Lewis Hamilton.

The details:

• Antonelli posed as "Peter Bonnington Jr" during a factory tour, maintaining his cover until the final reveal despite growing suspicion among staff.
• The video extends a running social media gag between Antonelli and his actual race engineer, Bono.
• At Silverstone, Martin Brundle noted Antonelli failed to clearly communicate steering issues caused by damaged bodywork, leading the team to replace only the nose, front wing, and tyres.
• Unresolved damage forced a second pit stop just two laps later, ending his race and denting his championship advantage.
• Brundle also questioned Antonelli's five-second track limits penalty, arguing sanctions should not apply when a driver is managing a mechanical failure rather than gaining an advantage.

What's next:

Antonelli must sharpen his race communication and avoid further retirements to rebuild momentum in a tightening title race. While the pranks keep morale light at Brackley, consistency will decide whether he can hold off his rivals as the season enters its decisive phase.