Lewis Hamilton awkwardly labelled a special video message from an iconic TV presenter ‘very strange’ ahead of this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix.

The seven-time Formula 1 world champion, 41, attended a Shell event in Shanghai on Thursday as he prepares to build on his fourth place in Melbourne at last weekend’s season opener.

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But the legendary racer was left dumbfounded while on stage in China when a video clip was broadcast on the screen behind him.

The presenter introduced it by saying: “We have prepared a very special surprise and gift for you. Let’s take a look at the video.”

Hamilton then proceeded to turn around to see former Top Gear and The Grand Tour presenter Richard Hammond.

Hammond went on to say: “All the very best for the forthcoming Grands Prix in Shanghai. We shall all be watching. All the very best mate, good luck.”

When the clip ended, Hamilton looked baffled and began nervously laughing.

Asked for a response, he then said: “I’ve never met him before. I don’t really know him. I’ve seen him on TV a couple of times.

“That’s very strange, not something I was expecting to see him of all people. Why did you choose him? It could have been anyone.

“But, no, the message was very nice, thank you so much. I grew up watching his show, it just caught me by surprise.”

Hamilton appeared on Top Gear in 2007 and 2013 alongside Jeremy Clarkson as a part of the show’s “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car” segment, but evidently did not meet Hamilton.

The Brit narrowly missed out on a podium place in Melbourne as the drivers continued to come to terms with the controversial new regulations.

Mercedes hit the ground running with a one-two finish as George Russell claimed victory ahead of team-mate Kimi Antonelli, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in third.

Reigning world champion Lando Norris rounded out the top five ahead of four-time winner Max Verstappen.

Aussie Oscar Piastri suffered a heartbreaking afternoon after he crashed out of the race before the formation lap.