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The 2024 Formula 1 season has been a rollercoaster of performances, and it's time to evaluate the future of several drivers on the grid. Out of the 20 drivers competing, eight could, and perhaps should, not receive contract offers for the 2025 season. The stark reality is that they have not performed well enough to justify their continuation, and their seats could be better utilized by emerging talents who represent the future of F1.
Retaining a seat in Formula 1 shouldn't rely heavily on past glories or untapped potential that never seems to materialize. It’s a ruthless environment where consistent performance and the ability to adapt and evolve are paramount. Drivers who fail to meet these standards are not only hindering their teams but also blocking the path for promising new talent ready to make their mark.
Based on these criteria, we arrive at the conclusion that 40% of the current grid is at risk of losing their seats. The drivers in question are Kevin Magnussen, Logan Sargeant, Daniel Ricciardo, Valtteri Bottas, Lance Stroll, Pierre Gasly, Esteban Ocon, and Zhou Guanyu. Each of these drivers has faced challenges and underperformed throughout the season, raising serious questions about their place in the sport moving forward. Let's delve into the specifics of their performances and why they may need to make way for the next generation of Formula 1 stars.
Apart from the maiden race after getting a second chance at F1, where he performed fantastically, Magnussen have kept a streak of low results. In 2024, he's not only done that, he's also kept a high profile for all the wrong reasons. Ugly and unsportsmanlike racing where he's been handed multiple penalties within a single race by pushing other drivers off track and driving like a rally car more than an F1 car. His shenanigans should've resulted in much harsher penalties, such as drive throughs or even race bans. The perception of Magnussen has dropped to the floor and I think I'm not alone in having had a enough of him. He's simply not good enough to stay.
Williams have shown a (too) high level of patience with Logan Sargeant and provided him with more than enough chances to show if he's F1 material. Unfortunately, Sargeant have been lacking the speed, race craft and sometimes even the mindset to remain in the highest category. He has frequently found himself at the back of the grid, unable to challenge more experienced drivers or secure consistent points finishes. His lack of improvement and inability to capitalize on race opportunities suggest that he may not be the right fit for the future of Williams or Formula 1 as a whole.
Without his personality and high fan appeal as well as being a so cuddly with Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner, Ricciardo most likely wouldn't have gotten a seat back in F1 with VCARB. He's shown time and again he doesn't cut it most weekends and keep trailing behind even Tsunoda (a decent but not great driver).
Valtteri Bottas has had a challenging 2024 season, failing to secure consistent points finishes and often being outpaced by his competitors. Once a reliable driver, Bottas has struggled to maintain his form, leading to his current predicament. His performances have not matched the expectations set by his experience and previous successes. Bottas’ inability to drive the team forward has made it difficult to justify his continued presence in F1, especially with younger drivers showing promising potential.
Lance Stroll has faced another year of inconsistent performances and missed opportunities in 2024. Despite substantial financial backing and a strong team, Stroll has not been able to deliver results consistently. His frequent mistakes and lack of competitive pace compared to his teammates have raised concerns about his future in F1. Stroll’s inability to leverage his experience and resources effectively suggests that it may be time for a more promising driver to take his seat.
Pierre Gasly’s move to Alpine has not yielded the desired results in 2024. His performances have been inconsistent, and he has struggled to keep up with his teammate. Despite occasional strong showings, Gasly has not been able to secure significant points or podium finishes. His inability to consistently compete at a high level raises questions about his future in F1. With the sport’s competitive nature, Gasly’s seat could be better utilized by a driver with more consistent performance and potential for growth.
Esteban Ocon has had a disappointing start to the 2024 season with Alpine. While he has shown flashes of his potential, Ocon has struggled with consistency and often found himself making critical mistakes. His fractious relationship with teammates and the team's management has further complicated his standing. Despite his experience, Ocon's inability to deliver reliable results suggests that it may be time for Alpine to consider other options for their driver lineup.
Zhou Guanyu’s 2024 season has not met the expectations set for him. Despite some promising performances, Zhou has been unable to consistently finish in the points and has made several crucial errors. His development seems to have stalled, and he has not demonstrated the ability to challenge more experienced drivers regularly. As Formula 1 looks towards its future, Zhou’s seat could be better occupied by a driver with a higher ceiling and immediate potential for improvement.