It was an April Fool's Hamilton-Vettel swap, but...

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There was no lack of wacky ideas at F1i when we discussed an angle for our inevitable April Fool's post. Ultimately we decided to run with something which, while highly improbable, offered a hint of credibility.

Mind you, our story yesterday about Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel trading places didn't catch many off guard.

In addition to the date, the immediate giveaway, at least for the astute Ferrari fan, was the mention of our fictional character at the basis of the "stunning" news, Teo Lurrini.

Hamilton and Vettel set for stunning Mercedes-Ferrari swap!

Anyone who closely follows the House of Maranello's affairs will have recognized a rigged version of renowned real-life Scuderia blogger and journalist Leo Turrini.

While few fell for the foolish post given its timing, it did offer some interesting insight into our readers' views and wishes.

Based on your comments on the website and on social media, the prospect of Hamilton and Vettel exchanging drives was not only perceived as possible, it was also a twist many of you would have loved to see!

The final word: don't give up on your fantasies people, stranger things have been known to happen in Formula 1...

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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.