He talked a massive game during the opening races, but he’s failed to get into Q3 at half the races so far. It’s incredible how Verstappen just stomps everyone thrown into the other car, young or experienced, and in every area. I honestly don’t think Checo “the tyre whisperer” Perez is better than Ver at tyre-saving, nor strategy, nor raw pace…
Is there anyone who RB would feasibly replace Per with? Maybe Norris? I’m not a huge fan personally, but I know he’s got plenty of cachet at the moment.
See, I think that now, while their car has such a great advantage, is a great time to groom someone who can fight when the margin is much smaller and who can really get in close to Verstappen to give the pitwall strategy options and maximise points. Now, for sure, a journeyman driver (Perez, gasly, albon) is fine. But get your rosberg or bottas in that other seat now and they’ll be up to speed when it matters
Bottas not a journeyman? Bold statement.
Ha, yes, that wasn’t the most thought-out thing ever, was it? It’s not fair to lump rosberg in with Bottas, really. In my mind, I’d put rosberg a bit below hamilton, and bottas a fair bit behind, then perez/gasly/albon another fair bit behind. Is that better nuance?
I’d agree with that. I dont see anyone wanting the seat next to Max who hasn’t already made their bed at another team or who would be vetod by Max