Wolff opens door for ‘Bono’ to follow Hamilton to Ferrari

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Mercedes boss Toto Wolff hasn’t dismissed the possibility that Lewis Hamilton’s long-standing race engineer Peter Bonnington could follow the seven-time world champion to Ferrari at the end of 2024.

Friday’s bombshell news of Hamilton’s sensational transfer to the House of Maranello caught Mercedes off-guard. It came after the Briton informed Wolff, out of the blue on Wednesday, during a breakfast meeting between the two men at the Austrian’s home in Oxford?

Hamilton and Bonnington, nicknamed "Bono," have formed a legendary partnership during the driver's dominant Mercedes years.

Bono's calm, clear instructions and unwavering support have become synonymous with Hamilton's victories, forging a bond that transcends the driver-engineer dynamic.

History suggests such moves are not uncommon. In 1996, Michael Schumacher's switch from Benetton to Ferrari saw key personnel from the Enstone squad like Ross Brawn and Rory Byrne follow suit, recognizing their shared vision for success.

Similar instances also include Jock Clear joining Jacques Villeneuve when the latter departed Williams for BAR, or Andrea Stella partnering with Fernando Alonso following the Spaniard’s high-profile move from Ferrari to McLaren.

Read also: Wolff pledges to be 'transparent and fair' to Hamilton

While Bonnington's personal decision currently remains unknown, Wolff acknowledged that he the topic to be tabled at some point by Hamilton.

"I think this is a discussion which everyone needs to have in the months to come," Wolff said.

"And as much as I've spoken with Bono already, when I told him [about Hamilton's move] he said, 'Is it April the first?' That's something which we will discuss in the future."

However, challenges exist. Contractual obligations – like the obligation to undergo a period of gardening leave – and personal considerations, like relocating to Italy, could complicate matters.

Ultimately, the decision will likely rest with Bonnington, and his choice will be closely watched by fans eager to see if the iconic Bono "It’s hammer time, Lewis” will continue to resonate in red instead of silver.

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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.