Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsMercedes

No favoritism towards Hamilton at Mercedes says Wolff

Toto Wolff has rejected innuendo regarding a preferential treatment of Lewis Hamilton by Mercedes at last weekend's Canadian Grand Prix, and insisted that both drivers are on an equal par.

At one point during the race, Hamilton's engineer Peter Bonnington informed him of Nico Rosberg's critical situation with his brakes, but when the German asked his own engineer about the state of Hamilton's car, Tony Ross replied that he was not allowed to answer.

Radio coaching was banned by the FIA last year, but the episode fueled questions as to whether Bonnington had effectively crossed the line by offering Hamilton info which may have constituted a competitive advantage.

While not specifically addressing whether any principle or rule had been transgressed, Wolff did refer to the issue when speaking to German tabloid Bild: "We have already clarified the matter internally. The statement from Lewis' engineer had no impact on the race. I stress once again: the drivers have absolutely equal treatment."

Click here for the best quotes from last weekend's Canadian Grand Prix

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.