Brendon Hartley's 2018 F1 Season: A Key to Success in 2019?

Brendon Hartley, F1's current “Kiwi” driver, has established a notable record in endurance racing, clinching various victories in prestigious series such as the 2017 24 Hours of LeMans. His F1 debut, with Toro Rosso, brings a wealth of experience and expectations for his next season. Despite the challenges posed by his teammate's exceptional performances, Hartley's skills and record are crucial factors to consider as he looks to improve his standing and deliver results in 2019.

Performance in Lower Racing Classes and the F1 Transition

It is essential to highlight that no driver can reach the pinnacle of motorsport without demonstrating prowess in lower racing classes. However, the transition to F1 often presents challenges, as new drivers frequently underperform compared to expectations. This article examines the performance of Brendon Hartley, alongside ex-McLaren and Sauber drivers Stoffel Vandoorne and Marcus Ericsson, in the 2018 F1 season. Their comparative successes, especially when contrasted with their teammates, provide insights into Hartley's potential and prospects for the future.

Teammate Comparisons and Scrutiny

Several factors have contributed to the scrutiny of Hartley and other drivers in 2018. Notably, Pierre Gasly and Charles Leclerc, who both debuted in F1 in 2018, have achieved remarkable results. Gasly's performance in Bahrain, finishing P6, and Leclerc's consistent points finishes have set benchmarks that contrast sharply with Hartley's relative lack of notable achievements.

While Vandoorne and Ericsson also have talented teammates, the disparity in performances between their cars and the ones driven by more established drivers like Fernando Alonso is stark. Alonso, despite his numerous retirements, managed to accumulate 50 points with a less competitive machine. These comparisons highlight the significant pressure on Hartley to perform at a higher level to maintain his position in F1.

Skills and Potential for Improvement

Brendon Hartley is unquestionably a driver with the necessary skills to excel in F1. His journey to securing a seat in F1 is a testament to his talent and record. However, the intense competition for scarce F1 seats necessitates a strong performance to secure a position. The battle in F2 and F3 between rising stars like Lando Norris and George Russell further emphasizes the need for experienced drivers like Hartley to perform at their best to secure a spot.

Hartley's 2018 performance has been underwhelming compared to Gasly's debut season. Some argue that a second season would allow Hartley to prove his mettle, but he must also consider the need to outperform his teammate. To succeed in 2019 with Toro Rosso, Hartley must not only beat Gasly but also achieve consistent and competitive results that meet the demanding standards of F1.