Quote Originally Posted by Lee Rex View Post
Thanks Zico and Nitro...I appreciate your replies. I'm well aware of the complexity of F1 contracts but I think that plays no role here. I continue to think that motives, not contracts, are at the root of this. But I am curious as to why Lewis' stock would drop if he had given up his seat for just one more race. With 7 world championships and 95 race wins, just why would he be that insecure?

Lewis arrived in Abu Dhabi unfit to drive the car. Even though he tested negative he certainly exhibited symptoms. Before the race he said he was "not 100%". I would be happy to defend his actions had he been fighting for points to win the championship. However, his title was secured weeks ago and Mercedes had nailed down the constructors title, so it seems reasonable to think that something less-than-admirable might be at work. I cannot actually be certain, nor can anyone else, of exactly what the motives may have been, but for now both Lewis and Mecedes have lost some of my respect!

Today it was announced that the pit straight at Silverstone would be named after Lewis, and I'm sure that one day he will knighted by the queen. I send Lewis my best wishes. He's a great champion. But he is flawed, just like the rest of us.

Lee


There is the possibility that one of the reasons Merc may have chosen to put Russell in the car expecting him to do well (which he obviously did) it would put them more in a position of strength for negotiating his (still unsigned) contract for the 21 season. Maybe.. maybe not.. but as a CEO/businessman that is something I'd be looking to do, no matter how deep the companys pockets were.
If Lewis were to accept a wage reduction from Merc would that not lower his stock value?
Also.. a lot of F1 fans have been saying that the car should be attributed to the vast majority of Lewis's success.. You only have to look at the BBC HYS forums, which is full of he detractors, all saying that Russell performing so well is proof that quite a few current F1 drivers (better/faster than Valteri) would be enjoying the same WDC success if they had the seat instead of Lewis. He wont like that.. and if I'm 100% honest, knowing that is at least partially true, I wouldnt like that either.