Lewis Hamilton-Peter Bonnington, soon the end of a duo that has become essential 

All good stories come to an end. That of the relationship between Lewis Hamilton and Peter Bonnnington will come to an end on December 8 when the checkered flag will be waved in Abu Dhabi for the final Grand Prix. Despite the rumors that have been circulating since the arrival of the seven-time world champion was made official Maranello from 2025, the engineer has decided not to leave Brackley and Mercedes, even accepting a new challenge.

Indeed, “Bono”, after undoubtedly asking himself the question, finally bet on continuity at Mercedes. While he will continue to guide whoever replaces Sir Lewis, he will also take on the role of Head of Race Engineering, effective immediately.

A few more “It’s Hammer Time” to hear 

If they still have to compete in 10 Grands Prix hand in hand, Lewis Hamilton and Peter Bonnington will put an end to more than 10 years of friendship. From a relationship that began in 2013, when the Englishman left McLaren for Mercedes at the end of 2012. A bet that many people considered crazy at the time.

Twelve seasons later, it is clear that the kid from Stevenage was not wrong in his choice. And that the Star did very well to associate him with Bono because together, they left their mark on the last decade.

Their very strong bond has almost become a love story in the paddock as the two men respect each other. In Peter Bonnington, Lewis Hamilton found the person who suited him best and understood him best. He was the first to say a few words to him after this controversial Abu Dhabi 2021 final when he saw his eighth crown slip from his hands. It was also he who always guided him on the radio, perfectly understanding how to manage his protégé's tempo which gave rise to one of the best-known phrases in the paddock “It's Hammer Time”. When he heard it, the co-world record holder knew he could let the horses go before making a pit stop. It was also Bono who accompanied him to the top step of the podium at Silverstone last July when his driver ended more than two years of drought. Like a symbol.

Dantesque statistics 

Sportingly, there is no need to recall that the two characters rode on the F1. Looking at their tally, Lewis Hamilton and Peter Bonnington have collected no less than 84 victories (out of the 105 in the driver's career), 78 pole positions (out of the 104) and 6 championships in 236 Grands Prix (to date). Just that.

From now on, the duo has 10 races ahead of them to finish this story in the most beautiful way. Difficult, almost impossible, to see Lewis Hamilton win an 8th title. But an 85th victory, or more, would not be refused before one leaves the money for the red, and the other begins a new chapter in his career with the successor of the one who has become over time his great friend.

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