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.
Ricciardo is their reserve driver, and was able to keep pace with Verstappen when they were teammates (although VER only got better and RIC only got worse since that time). The driver market is a bit thin at the moment.
It’s not going to happen. But wouldn’t it be great to see alsonso in that seat for a season.