So Danny Ric back in to fight with Tsunoda and show if he has what it takes. Next year they get Lawson into the AT and whoever from the 2 got the better hang of it replaces Perez at RB? I just don’t know if any of the 2 would want to replace Perez, whoever goes to that seat is clearly a n2 driver with no shot at challenging Max and would quickly be stopped on their tracks if they tried.

I just don’t think anyone can compete with Max in that car, maybe ham or another top driver. They seeming were gonna let Checo fight with max, but then he shit the bed in Qualifying the past 5-6 races so doesn’t have a chance anymore, or are we saying RB has done it on purpose?! But do agree teams don’t want two number 1 drivers, after 2016 for merc, Baku and, way back, Turkey for RB, teams want a solid #1 and a competitive #2

I’m not saying they are doing anything on purpose based on this season, Checo let it slip in a few races and got himself into this position alone. But from Danny Ric’s season with RB I think it was obvious they realized they couldn’t have another driver fight for wins with Max, as Max was just way too dangerous fighting in those situations. So now they want a clear 2 to support Max and sit behind him, reaping the points to guarantee the constructors.

And I dunno who would want to take that role willingly

Totally agree no one want to be designated second best, just look at Webber, bottas, Rossberg, Barrichello! All great but just shells of themselves at the end! Look at how much life bottas seems to have after leaving Merc! Would be sad to see happy and bubbly ricciardo turn into that, but could see him enjoying a few years back near the top before retiring/ contract ending before the next reg change in 26