It was a relief last week to see Williams finally confirm what everyone already knew, that Russian rookie Sergey Sirotkin will be partnering Lance Stroll at the Grove-based outfit in 2018.While the predictable decision has finally put to rest the exhaustive discussions over Robert Kubica’s fairytale comeback efforts, it has now fueled a lively debate on the merits of Williams’ new recruit.
Sergey Sirotkin
The problem isn’t Sirotkin however.
The 22-year-old’s claim to F1 fame is a legitimate one, based on his past performance in GP2 in which he collected several commanding victories and showed hints of blistering pace. His ability and a hefty dose of Russian rubles landed him a reserve drive with Renault and two thumbs up from the team’s trackside operations boss Alan Permane, who vaunted Sergey’s raw pace.
Williams’ Abu Dhabi shootout yielded a clear winner according to the team, with Sirotkin demonstrating better overall performance and consistency compared to comeback-man Robert Kubica. His elevation therefore to the rank of fully fledged Grand Prix driver – lavishly supported what is more – is warranted.
The timing of Williams’ decision is questionable however.
For the British team to bank on two inexperienced drivers at a time when it is struggling to remain competitive in the mid-field battle – let alone win it – is simply baffling.
Former Williams stalwart Nigel Mansell contends that inexperience won’t necessarily hurt the team’s 2018 campaign in a day and age when computers and engineers run the show. But the 1992 world champion fails to mention the underlying driver assets required to perform: race craft, flair and decision are the all-important disciples of experience and qualities which money can’t buy.
Facing a crossroads of sorts in F1, Williams was in dire need of an established driver, a solid performer to rely on for development and guidance, a trusted racer to keep the descending outfit from falling further.
Looking at a viable candidate who could have fit the bill, Sergio Perez comes to mind, but the fact that the Mexican ultimately disregarded Williams as an attractive proposition speaks clearly to the Grove-based outfit’s dimming light.
One should reserve judgment on Sergey Sirotkin who unquestionably deserves the benefit of the doubt. For Williams however, the Russian hopeful may turn out to be the right driver at the wrong time.
