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Yeah but will it be Hamilton, hamilton, Hamilton or will george get a fair crack at it too.
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Regardless of result today and the monumental clusterfuck by Mercedes, Russell performed this weekend well above what anyone could have expected of him.
Yes it's a fast car, but its a completely different car and he's had barely any time to get used to it. We've seen drivers in the past change teams from one season to another and still be moaning about getting used to the team, balance of the car, etc. 4/5 races into the season.
To jump in and perform the way he did all weekend is outrageously impressive. So, is Russell rather special? Is Bottas just a bit pony? Bit of both?
Surely Pérez has to get a drive next year; not only is he quick and demonstrated today that he can take an opportunity when it presents itself, doesn't he also bring a decent chunk of Mexican petrodollars with him? Although covid undoubtedly hit PEMEX hard so they might not be so willing and able to piss money away.
Final note: if anyone had that podium with the bookies, drinks on you!
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Telecomms money more than oil and gas. PEMEX is the state owned oil and gas company; Telmex is the formerly state-owned telecomms company sold in the 90s to Checo’s big supporter, Carlos Slim (who now owns the NY Times, Sears, and $50 billion worth of etceteras). Escuderia Telmex still lists Checo as one of their drivers, and earlier this year they started a joint academy programme with Ferrari. Edited for clarity.
Good on him, he’s had a rollercoaster year. He’ll doubtless want to prove himself against the full field, but he’ll need a better car... hopefully with a red bull on the livery.
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So, is Russell rather special? Is Bottas just a bit pony? Bit of both?
I think Bottas is a perfect #2 driver. Ego in check, works with the team and #1, is fast enough to push the leader but not so fast he causes team issues (i.e. Rosberg). We saw when Rosberg won the title that Hamilton can feel pressure and the atmosphere in the team was not a good one. I think this, as much as anything else, is why Bottas is kept on, he racks up points (when he's not unlucky), isn't dramatic and seems to be happier picking up a few good results a year than being #1 at a team with little/no chance of winning.
TBH, yesterday was a lot of perfect storm stuff for Mercedes. Russell whilst obviously exceptional, also benefitted from the fact it was a "new" track so had one less issue as other drivers were having to figure out braking distances, cornering etc like he was, despite having their usual cars. Great quali, great start, then a great race until it all went to shit. Without the tyre mistakes he might still have had the puncture and could have still finished off the podium but would probably not have beaten Bottas in that situation. Or he might not have punctured but Bottas also "lost" a chance of the win or a podium so it's all a bit murky. I hope Russell gets the last race to clear it up.
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I wasn't sure what a P2 grid position and a possible win might do for Russell's reputation as clearly that car is in another league. Thankfully Mercedes had thought about this and came up with an ingenious strategy to show the world just how much potential he has.
Perez wins the best win award for 2020?
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When was the last time someone drove from last at the end of the first lap to take the win? We know he benefitted from a load of safety car periods but it's great work nonetheless.
Maybe John Watson in 83 and maybe Button in 2011 but can't find lap charts, just comments online that it happened.
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@mmccarthy
George Russell getting P2 in qualifying is doing my head in, more answers than questions.