Is the pressure building on Perez? Your questions answered
May 21, 2024
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Ben Anderson and Josh Suttill discuss the pressure on Sergio Perez in F1, McLaren's race pace compared to Red Bull, challenges of overtaking on tracks, future prospects in F1, Aston Martin's development struggles, Formula 1 points gap, engineer roles, motorsport dynamics, and navigating the pressure in modern F1.
Performance gaps in F2 teams affect driver potential
Yuki Sonoda's F1 future influenced by team decisions and performances
Debates on track limits and gravel usage continue, balancing safety and competition
Deep dives
Performance Disparity Among F2 Teams Evaluated
The struggle of Kimi Antonelli and Oli Beerman at Prima this season has raised questions about team performance disparities in F2. While they are seen as F1-worthy talents, their difficulties in race trim suggest challenges within their team at Prima. Despite F2 being a spec series designed to provide equal opportunities, differences between teams have always existed in junior single-seater racing. Prima's performance this year, though reflected poorly in results, has shown promising pace in instances like Bairman's pole position at a jedded knee and Antonelli's strong qualifying showing at Emmiller.
Sonoda's Future in F1 Considered
The prospects of Yuki Sonoda in F1 are under discussion, with considerations of his performance and Honda's influence. While Honda may prefer to have a Japanese driver like Sonoda in F1, Aston Martin's partnership with Honda for engine supply potentially impacts Sonoda's future. The dynamics at Aston Martin, influenced by financial and team decisions, may play a key role in determining Sonoda's F1 path. Suggestions of a scenario retaining Lance Stroll at Aston Martin could impact Sonoda's seat availability, emphasizing the importance of his continued strong performances to secure a future in F1.
Track Limits and Gravel Resistance Questioned
Queries on track limits enforcement and gravel use have arisen with debates on their effectiveness. Despite calls for more gravel traps, issues with track limit violations persist, highlighting challenges in balancing safety and competition. The discussion touches on the complexity of maintaining track boundaries and the need for sensible application considering individual corners. The ongoing debate underscores the intricate nature of track design and limit enforcement within the realm of motorsport regulation.
F2 Challenges and Future Expectations
The challenges faced in F2 due to the new F2 car design have affected teams like Premier, impacting driver performances. Despite current disparities, a convergence is expected over the season, especially with teams adapting to the new car. The upcoming rounds might see better results for Premier drivers, ensuring a competitive F2 series.
Aston Martin's Development Struggles
Aston Martin's struggle with in-season car development has raised concerns about their ability to compete at the highest level. The team's evolution from a midfield outfit to a competitive force has encountered challenges, leading to inconsistencies in performance. Despite modest improvements, Aston's developments have not matched those of their competitors, hindering their progress towards consistent top results.
Ben Anderson and Josh Suttill join Edd Straw to look ahead to the Monaco Grand Prix, and answer some more questions from listeners, sent in after Imola. Included are questions on whether we should expect wins to be shared around from now on, plus whether Sergio Perez should be under pressure as a result.
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