Mika Salo did so well in replacement of Schumacher. As did DC in place of Senna in cars capable of winning.
Thanks for helping my point. The ability of the driver makes an impact. Not everyone can step into even a quality car and be competitive, let alone win, and that's after several races and opportunities to do so. Heck, Jos Verstappen had many races behind the wheel of the 94 Bennetton and was waaaaay off the pace. Assuming that winners *only* win because they have the best car isn't showing the whole picture.
It wouldn't surprise me. Bottas is often quicker than Hamilton in practice and sometimes in Q1 or Q2, we might well be looking at the reverse, and once everything gets hooked up, he'll be quicker.
Did nothing to prove your point. Did everything to prove mine. Guy steps in and tops both practices, same as Hamilton who is severely overrated. Like his pole to win ratio
So pointing out occasions where guys have stepped into good cars and failed to make an impact, somehow *helps* your argument that it's only about the car and driver ability has no impact? And that drawing all of these conclusions from two practice sessions is somehow logical (because we all know two practice runs outweighs a decade of results, the opinions of other drivers etc)?
Everything Bottas gained on that lap he lost by being unable to keep it within the limits, if he has to back off he loses 3 tenths and ends up a tenth off russell anyway. You are also assuming Russell won't get quicker with more time in the car which is highly unlikely. I can see there being a comfortable 3-4 tenths between them tonight.
It depends how far he beats Bottas by and if he gets another chance and does it again. I'd be telling Hamilton you can have 5mil or we will give Russell your seat if he dominates this weekend, no sense wasting the money on something that isn't required and Lewis can't win anywhere else.
There is absolutely no chance Mercedes get rid of Hamilton. He’s consistently fast, makes minimal mistakes and salvages points from bad positions. He’s their dream driver and they aren’t going to risk it all to save some cash.
Neither of those things are facts. It’s obviously the fastest car and the majority of drivers would win races in it but winning championships is an entirely different thing. Lewis has been dominant all season but switch a couple of his wins to outside the points and give them to Bottas or even Max and things are a lot tighter.
“Get in there Lewi- Sorry George, muscle memory”
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