Hamilton's Mercedes race engineer Bonnington makes early F1 return
Lewis Hamilton's regular race engineer Peter Bonnington has returned to the Mercedes Formula 1 team at the United States Grand Prix, one race earlier than expected
Bonnington missed the Mexico race for a personal medical procedure at home in the United Kingdom, although Hamilton said he assisted the team from its base and had even been in discussion over set-up advice through the weekend.
Originally, Bonnington had been expected to miss this weekend's race at Austin as well and then return for the Brazilian Grand Prix in two weeks' time.
However, he is back in the garage with Mercedes in the US and returned to his engineering role for FP1 on Friday.
Bonnington's return to action at Austin means he will be on-site for Hamilton's expected clinching of a sixth world title on Sunday.
The Briton only needs to finish eighth to eliminate team-mate Valtteri Bottas from contention and secure a fifth title in six years with Bonnington as his right-hand man at Mercedes.
Bonnington was replaced in Mexico by Marcus Dudley, Hamilton's usual performance engineer.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff hailed the "phenomenal" job Dudley did in Bonnington's absence, while Dom Riefstahl - who filled in for Dudley instead of his usual race support leadership role - was also praised by Hamilton.
Share Or Save This Story
The driver who can wreck F1's "super exciting" 2020 silly season
Red Bull's Verstappen now has basis for first F1 title challenge
Ferrari: Mick Schumacher a good candidate for seat in Formula 1
Why some F1 team bosses think drivers shouldn't have a say in the rules
How Bearman is already securing his Ferrari F1 future
How the Japanese GP Hamilton-Norris battle highlighted a flaw in 2026 F1 rules
Zak Brown writes to FIA over Mercedes-Alpine ownership concerns
The underlying reasons why Russell won't be alarmed yet by Antonelli's start to F1 2026
"We love V8s" - What F1 manufacturers think about future engine regulations
Nurburgring 24 Hours: Verstappen completes first night laps as rain disrupts running
Zak Brown writes to FIA over Mercedes-Alpine ownership concerns
Marini suggests new Safety Commission model amid poor rider turnout
Higginson early leader as Autosport National Rankings returns for 2026
Subscribe and access Autosport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments