Hamilton reacts to pending split from key ally Bonnington.

Hamilton reacts to pending split from key ally Bonnington. Full Story 👇

Lewis Hamilton has addressed the news that his long-time race engineer, Peter Bonnington, will not be joining him at Ferrari in 2025, putting an end to their decade-long partnership. Bonnington, more commonly known as ‘Bono,’ has been promoted to the head of race engineering at Mercedes, solidifying his future with the team instead of following Hamilton to Ferrari.

The partnership between Hamilton and Bonnington has been one of the most successful in Formula 1 history. Ever since Hamilton joined Mercedes in 2013, Bonnington has been the voice in his ear during every session, providing vital information and guidance. Together, they have enjoyed numerous successes, contributing to Hamilton’s seven world championships. However, their professional relationship is set to conclude at the end of the current season when Hamilton departs Mercedes.

In an interview with Sky F1, Hamilton reflected on the bond they have shared over the years and expressed both happiness and sadness over the situation. While he will miss working alongside Bonnington, Hamilton is thrilled that his engineer is being promoted within the team, seeing it as a well-deserved recognition of Bonnington’s contributions.

“Seven years ago, or maybe five years ago, we joked about how amazing it would be to be at Ferrari one day,” Hamilton revealed. “But honestly, there were never any serious discussions about it happening. Bono had to make the right decision for himself, and I completely respect that.”

Hamilton’s final season at Mercedes has been marked by a resurgence in form, with the Briton securing two victories in the last three races. This has only added to the emotional weight of his final run of races with the Brackley-based team, knowing that his partnership with Bonnington is coming to an end.

Despite the professional split, Hamilton emphasized that their relationship goes beyond just racing. For Hamilton, Bonnington is more than just a colleague; he’s a brother. The pair have shared countless highs and lows throughout their time together at Mercedes, forging a bond that will endure even after they go their separate ways professionally.

“I’m genuinely so happy for Bono,” Hamilton said when discussing Bonnington’s promotion. “Ultimately, I wanted him to do what was best for him and his family. Where he is in his life right now, this is the best move for him, and I support that fully. It doesn’t change our relationship at all. It just means we won’t be working side by side every day, which is going to be tough for both of us.”

Hamilton went on to acknowledge how emotional their final races together will be, but he’s confident that their friendship will remain strong. “It’s going to be sad, no doubt about it, but we’re always going to be a part of each other’s lives. Bono is my brother, and I’m really happy the team is giving him this chance to grow because he’s such an incredible asset to Mercedes.”

The news of Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has dominated headlines in recent weeks, with many wondering how the transition will affect both him and the teams involved. For Mercedes, Bonnington’s promotion represents a strategic move to retain one of their most valuable assets and to ensure continuity within their engineering department as they face a future without Hamilton.

Bonnington’s new role as head of race engineering at Mercedes will allow him to oversee and mentor a new generation of engineers, further solidifying his legacy within the team. For Hamilton, meanwhile, the 2024 season will be one of transition, not just as he prepares for a new chapter with Ferrari, but also as he bids farewell to one of the most important figures in his racing career.

As the season draws to a close, Hamilton and Bonnington will no doubt look to end their partnership on a high note, aiming to secure more victories and perhaps even another championship before they part ways. But even as they go their separate paths professionally, the respect and camaraderie they have built over the years will endure, cementing their legacy as one of the most successful driver-engineer duos in the history of Formula 1.

Ultimately, while their on-track partnership may be coming to an end, the bond they have forged is something that will last far beyond their days in Formula 1. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari marks the beginning of a new chapter, but the memories and successes he has shared with Bonnington at Mercedes will remain an integral part of his journey as a racing driver.