Quote Originally Posted by F1nKS View Post
**snipped to keep the relevant info I'm responding to**


Horner when asked about driver lineup for 2022 said something to the effect that there will have a "competitive driver" in the 2nd seat next year and wouldn't commit to Perez.

Of course I am sure RB wants Perez to put it together all together and bring consistent results the rest of the year (beating Bottas and being in position to do what he did last week).



I agree. Things don't seem to go well with two Alpha Dogs on the same team. That why it could be a little dicey with him paired up with Hamilton until he retires.
I think you've touched upon two key points that would impact either possible move.

RB have said the same about the last several #2 drivers. No long term commitment seems to be the current game. Perform now or be gone more or less. Some drivers would take a chance at that, others might not.

And more importantly IMHO is the two strong drivers on one team comment. Merc really doesn't want that, and I don't think RB does either. Though Merc did let Nico race Lewis, at this stage of the game having stuck with Bottas, it's safe to say they are looking for #2. And RB has made it clear even when Max wasn't top dog, he was going to get top dog status.

Though it could be subject to change. Merc has had the luxury is winning constructors with Bottas in the camp, even when he wasn't the strongest. Now with a threat from RB they might let someone challenge Lewis. And the same applies to RB.... if they think they are in the fight for the top spot, they might change their normal methods a bit.



But...... I think we should just start a silly season thread now. None of our recent responses has anything to do with Baku.