Why Red Bull could regret losing Alex Albon

[@nathanb286]

This video of course came from a place of absolutely no bias

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Alex Albias is great.

[@georgeoliver8300]

😂😂

[@Alsael]

@@TommoMcCluskey Why would RB regret "losing" albon, if they need him, they can always offer him a contract, he's not choosing williams over red bull. And even if another team picks him up it's not like he's a top 5 driver

[@tahasoomro7465]

@@Alsael he wont be back at redbull unless he gets his terms , and only certain terms are available at redbull

[@gregbrown6379]

Alex needs a cry room included in his contract.

[@hamza-chaudhry]

I remember in 2021, when it was announced that Yuki would be staying with the team, Yuki said he was surprised they resigned him. Gotta love his honesty, it's hilarious.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

He's a real one

[@ThereMayBeLions]

He just feels like someone whose circumstance brought him to F1, like he's just happy to be there and do what he can. I can admire him for that, but it doesn't make him a quality F1 Driver in my eyes.

[@liamlyda2116]

​@ThereMayBeLions I think Yuki has recently proved himself to be a proper fast driver. It's no secret that Honda helped get him where he is now, but it wasn't all Honda. If RBR decide to move on from Checo, I would be shocked if it isn't Yuki they put in that seat.

[@jameseller5512]

@@ThereMayBeLions p3 in f2 as a rookie. awful take

[@ThereMayBeLions]

@@jameseller5512 Success in F2 is not a guarantee for success in F1. I can name numerous examples of stars from F2 that flounder in F1.

[@20DYNAMITE06]

I don't think Horner is expressing regret... just a genuine regard for a former driver. The team eats up drivers, almost comically so, but they do seem to hold a place in their hearts for the ones that are all around kind people - such as Danny Ric and Alex.

[@dannysstart2218]

maybe he was just praising one of his protege's?? like they would with seb? im sure if gasly wins a race they will be nice about it, he left on good terms tbf

[@xmixdx7351]

@@dannysstart2218 most drivers leave on good terms tbh, or with some form of a relationship, look at kvyat for example, dude was put in the AT seat when they couldnt find any new talent, he was replaced rather quickly once they did have new talent but still that relationship was still there to get him in that seat

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Perhaps that's it, but I'm sure part of him regrets being able to unlock this level of confidence in Alex, when he was a Red Bull driver.

[@OUOU46]

I think It's personal not as Ex-Boss, Albon is usually takes the same private jet back to the UK with him and some RB people even though he's in the Williams.

[@toyotaecw]

At this point Alex could drag a lawn tractor into the points paying positions.

[@blitzbee2252]

I hope Alex helps to build up Williams like Aston, I feel like him and James have potential to bring Williams back to the top of the midfeild especially with their ATR time.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

In Vowles we trust

[@Gamurboi]

@@TommoMcCluskey Wames Wowles

[@Roguescienceguy]

They don't have the necessary engineeringtalent nor the money and facilities to be anything more than a glorified trainerteam for aspiring young drivers. Vowles won't change that.

[@The_ZeroLine]

Vowles has really solidified the team. They were directionless and truly at sea before he came. While Albon will never be an extremely fast driver, his work ethic, his humanity + lack of arrogance, patience and calm demeanor make him an ideal driver for Williams to rebuild around. I can see him developing into a Coulthard’esque type driver. He was a great driver for helping turn RBR into a serious team. I mean they would have produced a fast car no matter what with Newey there, but I’m sure he helped in the details.

[@The_ZeroLine]

@@RoguescienceguyBut Vowles is banding together other teams in that situation to get F1 to allow cost cap breaks on infrastructure for teams like Williams who couldn’t pour money into infrastructure before the cap took effect.

[@LastLapLucy]

I'm just glad to see him finally getting the respect he deserves! 🥰

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Our prop has paid off

[@LastLapLucy]

@@TommoMcCluskey absolutely 😌😌😌

[@yerrie1908]

You don't deserve respect you need to earn it, and he is starting to earn it, it's a sport, he gets paid well, it's not a make wish foundation, crazy that woke BS in this sport

[@darrendavids9663]

Alex and Pierre got a raw deal when they were dropped from Red Bull. The 2019 and 2020 (RBR15 and RBR16) was incredibly unstable in the rear and was unforgiving through corners. Alex and Pierre lacked the confidence that Max had with the car - hell even Max spun the RBR15 & RBR16 a couple of times, especialy during practice - and couldn't match him in quali and in the race. Perez was lucky that when he stepped into the RBR16B, those issues were ironed out following the rule changes to the floor and the overall improvement of the car (this is not to say that Perez isnt good, he is). I think that Alex could probably give Checo a run for his money in the 2022 Red Bull

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Yeah it's a good point. Even Max was more comfortable in the 2021 RB, than the 2020 RB. Not just faster, but it was clearly a more driveable car.

[@ccramit]

So many fans don't understand this. They don't understand the intricacies of the car or all the behind the scenes stuff. They see Perez doing slightly better (his 2021 season was just average, but like 2 memorable moments have made everyone think Perez was a God in 2021) and just attribute EVERYTHING to Perez's driving ability. They forget he was signed to drive in Formula E when Toro Rosso came calling, having thought his F1 chances were dead. And then promoted to RB half a season later. Then, his first full season was screwed up by Covid after his 2019 season ended with Hamilton taking away Alex's first podium. And 2020 started with Hamilton taking away another podium, maybe even a win. All this while he was teamed up with the most talented driver to step into F1 in the last decade in Max. Alex and Gasly were put in the most difficult place for any driver in like the last 20 years. "Here, we are the second/third best car on the grid. We suddenly lost a driver and are now promoting you guys with very little warning. Oh, also, your teammate is a God and you need to keep up with him. Good luck."

[@dannysstart2218]

Piere was woeful in the redbull. he moved way to early. his attitude was said to be rotten as well. think he was compared to leclerc alot cuz they moved at same time?? I mean Max is the new schumi anyone will look crap next to him, look how schumi made barichelo look? irony that schumi mugged maxs dad of in 1994 lol

[@alicekoppenol-pitti6257]

Alex was always good. Problem is that everyone starts to overthink their life choices when driving next to Max. Combine it with the fact that during his stint at Red Bull the circumstances in his private life concerning his mother were not conductive for any Zen headspace. With everything stabilized and a good woman by his side in Lily he can take on anything.

[@SuperPassionflower]

and we are all humans after all, that does include top athletes and includes F1 drivers as top athletes regardless how ruthless F1 world is. we are all humans . I only wish him the best, he is a gem!

[@The_ZeroLine]

And with Daniel edging Max in every single performance category except quali (a virtual tie instead at 20-21), RBR had become too used to having two drivers maximizing performance.

[@reyervanleeuwen6839]

@hfcyes he is and I think Lando will give him a run for his money, but still lose out in the end. And ofcourse Fernando….

[@IJustLikeBikes]

​@The_ZeroLine Daniel edging Max 😮

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Queen Lily

[@summergamz5880]

I think the problem was in 2021 ngl, when they chose to call up Yuki from F2 over sending Albon back down to AlphaTauri. I feel like not only could Yuki have gotten another year to develop in F2, fighting for the title against Piastri. But also we could've actually compared Gasly and Albon properly to see which one is truly better and then RB could've moved forward from there.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Aye fair point, it wasn't like Yuki won F2. He was very good ofc, but a risk regardless.

[@Bacon007]

Love that response from George. It felt genuine. Not the usual media trained, corporate response I’ve come to expect from him.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

👑

[@raelized]

I seriously think Alex has a real chance to go to Merc when Lewis leaves.

[@liukin95]

I think so to. George would certainly do his bidding for him.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

If he keeps up these performance levels, who knows. Albon x Russell would be a vibe.

[@Redlingstein]

Nah. No chance.

[@pookpratch]

I want to see Alex back in the top teams, preferably Red Bull. But Merc is probably more likely, and definitely interesting to see!! Go Albon x Russell!

[@KJ28554]

Tommo loves a good excuse to make a video about Alex

[@atk237]

I love a good excuse to watch a Tommo Albono video

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Perk of the job

[@glenrobinson10]

I do think, as in other sports, fit is much more important than putting a fast driver in a fast car. Albon with no pressure as a team leader with no expectations & no competition from his teammate is thriving.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Talent isn't enough, you need all those things around you to be in place. Many of those things being completely out of our sight, as fans.

[@glenrobinson10]

@@TommoMcCluskey It's a reason why I think people are too quick to put Lando in other cars before realising that at 23, McLaren are building everything up with him as the nucleus. He could build something special there like Lewis did at McLaren & Max has done at RBR.

[@justadummy8076]

@@glenrobinson10 apparently (according to him) the car doesn’t suite his driving style, which just makes it even more confusing as to what McLaren is doing

[@glenrobinson10]

@@justadummy8076 That's because James Key does not understand a single thing about the new regulations. I was referring to more of the new facilities, new technical leadership, etc.

[@marksanyal]

Williams is in a very interesting place at the moment. Audi is coming in with a new engine. Honda is returning. Ford-RB will be out to prove their performance. Williams is probably the only team on the grid that can choose any engine it likes come 2026. This is why someone like Alex is so crucial for the team. He is invested. He is helping develop the car and the team. He will be key to developing the chassis to be the best it possibly can. Vowles is placing the necessary foundations now to set up 2026 and I am excited for both. Alex has always been a favourite of mine among the new crop of talented drivers that came in. Seeing him succeed genuinely makes me happy. Also, WALEX WALBON!

[@bilalrasool1]

Remember in 2021 Max was fighting for the title and Perez was prepared to do anything to give Max an advantage, this includes running his race and strategy in order to help Max. And Perez was close to the top many times, he was able to keep up in France, in Baku, in Abu Dhabi to name a few. And Perez was able to defend and fight Lewis to help Max, mainly Baku, Turkey, and Abu Dhabi. I'd say Perez's performance in 2021 was incredible, he was able to hop I that car and drive it fast. But in 2022 his performance wasn't as impressive, Max beat Charles and won the championship with 6 rounds to go and Perez couldn't beat Charles.

[@einezcrespo2107]

I don't know if regret is the right word. Maybe pleased for Alex. As long Max rules the Red Bull garage I don't know if it's a good idea for Alex to go back there. James Vowles is slowly getting the team together wants to work on the infrastructure. Alex seems far more comfortable there and growing over at Williams.

[@kieferclarkf1674]

I’ve been saying this for a year now, I think he will be back at Red Bull in 2025. And I still haven’t moved on from Austria 2020.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Brazil 19 hurt, but Austria 20... oh man.

[@syauqimuhammadnurfikriisla1119]

He would've won that race if He overtook Lewis successfully. I am 100% sure

[@heyoted8910]

Walex Walbon gives me the same amount of hope as having JPM and Ralph back in the day. They were the reason I first supported Williams and I absolutely love the new direction- it feels hopeful!

[@AlexM-mi7kt]

Albon is really good right now, but maybe a little bit overrated. His Teammates were Latifi and Sargent. I think we cannot really say how good he is, because there is no comparison. And not forget how baaaad his Qualis were in the Red Bull.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

It's a fair point. Even versus Latifi, it was in a different generation of car to when George was against Nicky. His close proximity to DK in his rookie year is probably the clearest measure stick. 😅

[@AustinG29152]

Stacked against Kvyat in 2019 his rookie season, he did really well. And kvyat was consistent enough to finish ahead of Ricciardo in 2015. Sure he became the torpedo shortly after, but kvyat is a better comparison than Sargeant and latifi lol

[@tahasoomro7465]

you dont need to point that out , albon binned it in Australia , its just that alex is providing peaks with some what stable lows , albon is doing much better in a different environment , williams is bring out more out of him than redbull , as simple as that

[@Yes-sw8gh]

Sergio is also very good, until there is pressure to perform, then not so much, Le Clerc has the same problem for example. Albon will have to prove he can perform at the front row under pressure, otherwise he's just a good midfield driver, which I really think is the case here.

[@einezcrespo2107]

By your logic Verstappen would be overrated. He still doesn't have a teammate that could challenge him at Red Bull. Ricciardo was closest but as he once said on Drive to Survive he saw the direction the team was going.

[@CryptoInsightsLab]

In a way it's just unfortunate to be Max's teammate. The guy is an absolute monster. There aren't that many drivers in the entire field that wouldn't look like bad drivers when they're in the same car as Max and constantly get measured against him...

[@manat31790]

Remember in his Red Bull years when he couldn't keep up, made rookie mistakes, and people trash talked him? I did. Albon only got this fast because the Williams understands and is supportive to him. He's so satisfied with that team that he says he won't leave. This is the ingredient to success. You need the driver and the team to cooperate to bring the best out of both parties. Red Bull is the team that infamously promotes lone prodigy and doesn't care about the #2 driver. Max Verstappen alone can win them world championships, so why should they care about some discarded driver like Albon when Perez's still a good enough defense driver capable of holding the competitors off from Verstappen's tail?

[@cbrown182]

I said it years ago. Albon was treated badly by red bull and they made a mistake. All he needed was less pressure and a little more time. I hope Alex stays at Williams or ends up at a leading (non red bull) team where he is first or joint first driver. He's too talented to be a second driver.

[@blueredlover1060]

I think on some level, Albon is happy to be back on the F1 grid. If he hadn't gotten the Williams seat, there's a chance he's racing over here in Indycar. The thing is that he's been performing quite well in a car that honestly has no business being even compentent, but he's outperforming the car. I think that he could be a priority free agent, if he becomes available. I'm looking at maybe Aston Martin, but also Mercedes and Red Bull.

[@Nickunparalleled]

Alex Albon smiling like an Angel & driving like a Bad Mothereffer ❤

[@SuperPassionflower]

I am hoping to see more of that rest of this season!

[@TommoMcCluskey]

🙌

[@abel6846]

Coulda, woulda, shoulda. Albon can always come back to RBR, if they can hash out a deal. In fact, if Alex continues this form, his re-entry in the RBR fold could mean that his position in the team will be stronger.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Perhaps to AlphaTauri instead of RB...?

[@SuperPassionflower]

re-entry to that team would be no different to as it is now with present nr 2 driver, a place that he has filled himself earlier on and perhaps too soon in his own development because RB decided that Gasly had failed in that position. I would love to see Albon be nr 1 driver in a Williams team that is growing in strength and competitiveness, rather than having to be nr 2 behind Max again with the RB pressure in his neck. Albon is a gem, he seems to be in a good and happy place at this moment, he will have to show if that stays remainder of this season and I hope so. SO in fact I absolutely agree with your closing lines (the core of the case and question put in this video)

[@natelecarde962]

“Alex Albon, is bloody wonderful.” -Tommo

[@TommoMcCluskey]

He's right y'know

[@RIchard-ky7zk]

Albon was the only driver who did a decent job in that RB for his experience level. Gasly Failed, Perez is Failing at the moment. And if you compare Albon's pace offset in the RB to max. To Checo's first RB season then Albon did quite similar if not better. That being said,, if he returns to RB he will always be a number 2 driver. I hope he can fight for No.1 Driver status at another team.

[@SuperPassionflower]

Albon as 2nd driver was before I got into following F1 again after decades of .. no interest. I think he did cave in under the pressure when he was in that seat and seems to now be in a very good place, growing and maturing. I don't know if going back to being 2nd behind Max would be a wise thing to do

[@F1ll1nTh3Blanks]

Checo did the job in 2021 though.

[@einezcrespo2107]

@@SuperPassionflower Alex did admit he was unprepared. The time off helped him rebuild and prepare. It seems to be paying off.

[@CarlosDiaz-qb4jj]

Why is Checo failing though? He is 2nd, has played #2 perfectly and nobody expected him to challenge Max anyway

[@RIchard-ky7zk]

@@CarlosDiaz-qb4jj Last season he should have finished 2nd in the constructors. This year he is also throwing away points for the constructors. And we are not even half way through the season. He throws away to many points on his own in my opinion. If that Honda engine was not so reliable he would be fighting to outscore the midfield riders.

[@joepafjiga9015]

Walex Walbon. Great video, I'm happy that he is getting the respect and recognition that he deserves. Especially from Red Bull that is surprising. If you like this Tommo, comment Alex Albono Fan Club

[@manbok2035]

Who’s here after Albon beat both Ferraris?

[@Evarakeus]

I don't think RedBull will particularly "regret" losing Walex Walbon, seeing as they have Max up through 2028 and a quickly improving Yuki waiting in the wings. A missed opportunity, perhaps, but RB have plenty of talent waiting around and a renewed willingness to hire outside of that group, too. I don't think Horner or Helmut ever doubted Albon's talent, especially seeing as Horner personally lobbied Williams to take him on, it was just a business decision that had to be made. That they replaced him with a guy like Sergio (very experienced) and how they've handled Yuki (third year in F1 now despite his foibles) shows they've learned their lesson imo, and if they've any regrets it's probably more to do with how they handled the whole thing rather than with the ultimate decision to drop Albon.

[@kevinhekers2380]

I think he has a really good work attitude he made the best of a bad situation when he was dropped , and he was rewarded with a f1 seat , i think he needs to stay with Williams in the short term and see how they develop if they are still at the back in 2 or 3 years then he should jump ship

[@morganmartin9286]

So glad you brought up the fact that Sergio has had a better...and now much better car than Albon did, people seem to forget that. Albon is a quality driver and I would love to see him get another chance with a competitive team. Aston Martin could be an interesting spot for him in the future.

[@Duval-In-The-Wall]

As an AM fan, I’d drop kick Stroll out of the team for Albon. Hell I’d even swap Alonso, I fucking love Alex

[@charlesjmouse]

Always an interesting video. FWLIW: I get the feeling that RB's environment is something of a pressure cooker, not helped by Max being really very good, and of course Joss the SOB ...there are very few drivers who can thrive in such an environment and that's why RB struggles to find a second driver - it would be no different for Alex if he never left or came back, Sergio only seems to just about cope because he's very experienced. Alex is 'better off' out of it.

[@seesiedler1]

That Daniel Riccardo comment didn't age well, I suppose.

[@ChristianRunsNY]

I don't think you get a team to the front of F1 living in the past. Christian's giving credit where credit is due and likes the guy outside of the business. I'm sure he is thinking more forward than anything in case they do want him to come to Red Bull at any point in the future. Gotta love Walex

[@HexAyed]

Walex Walbonoooooooooo I really, really hope Williams get to a midfield position, kinda where Alpine are, or McLaren last season. And Albono sticks with it and enters the history books as the driver, alongside Logan, who brought Williams back as a serious race team

[@mamavswild]

Of course Christian Horner was talking about Alex, he knows him very well and he stayed on as a reserve driver until going to Williams…when he left for Williams RBR threw him a party. It makes sense that Horner is proud of him.

[@fin-ed6oj]

RB definitely don’t regret it. If they ever wanted Albon back in the main team, I’m sure they could convince him. “Hey come join RB, you’re basically guaranteed a podium every race and when Max has issues you’ll win and get pole positions. Or you can stay at Williams and hope that you score a point every now and again”

[@valksacu934]

I'm glad you chose this thumbnail. :)

[@stoptalking85]

Walex Walbon. Tommo I found you originally when I started watching F1 in 2020 because you were also an Albon fan. I had found an F1 home. Love the channel. Keep up the great work.

[@alifpr]

Definitely a fun thing to guess where he might go next, I'd love to imagine him partnering with Alonso in the AM. But we all know that's never gonna happen. WALEX WALBON!

[@robertss7933]

Everybody's shitting on Alex because he had a bad stint with redbull. But he was a ROOKIE who hopped in a new car MID season....

[@racer_AB]

Walex Walbon. Interesting take on the three drivers. Appreciate the information.

[@aberamagold7509]

I used to think finding a teammate for Max would be tough because, as Tommo mentioned, the guy has to be capable of being on the podium, practically, every race but, at the same time, not so capable that he could actually become a threat to Max. But that doesn't matter anymore because in the last few years, Max has just gotten so good that I don't think anyone can touch at the moment. Yes, I know the car plays a large role... ... just ask Lewis 🤣. Aww poor Lew Lew ☹️

[@XBullitt16X]

Albon always was a great driver, the problem is how much stress and pressure get's put on you as RBRs and Max's second driver, even an experienced driver like Checo, whom is Max's best teammate to date is starting to feel that pressure . Its rather tough when your teammate is probably the best driver the sport has ever seen in terms of raw talent and adaptability, yes even better than the greats like Schumi, Senna Alonso and Lewis. It also doesn't help that RBR are a very results driven team, more so than Merc, the prior top running team, probably the most results driven in fact. It also didn't help that they were pulled up into the main team far too early in their development as drivers, they got tossed into the deep end before they learnt to swim. RBR probably didn't have much choice for drivers at the time, so they had to bring him up to the main team, I feel if they had a Checo at the time they definitely would've kept Albon on as reserve. Regardless Its not the first time RBR have squandered and burnt fantastic drivers, just look at Danny, Gasly and Albon. They missed Danny so much they got him back even as a reserve and test driver

[@paulbulk7044]

I can understand your point of view but you can also say that a lot of drivers are supported by RB . Look at the grid and you can see that Gasly, Albon, Sainz, Tsunoda are still in F1 and Perez had also said goodbye to F1 . And all the other racers done well in other catogories.

[@WebsterFranklin]

Tommo....Love this thought-provoking content from you. I think Christian and Helmut have both looked back at the Gasly and Albon situation and have come around to the Franz Toast way of thinking that it takes a rookie driver 3 years to prove his worth. Regardless of the way it ended at RB with Gasly, even Christian has publicly said that it could/should have been handled differently. Ironically, Gasly is better off at Alpine, Alex is better off at Williams and Yuki, in his 3rd year, has developed into the type of driver with the potential to be a great #2 to Max. The two RBR drivers that are in somewhat of a struggle are drivers outside the RB family, Perez and DeVries. I predict that Liam Lawson, much like Gasly, will replace Nick at the summer break. If successful making the jump, it's not to far fetched to see Yuki replace Perez for 2024 with a Danny Ric/Liam Lawson lineup at AT. This will still provide the proverbial RBR pressure on their drivers to perform as Yuki will have the threat of Danny Ric at AT if he does not perform. Would love to hear your thoughts on this scenario. Cheers!

[@Redlingstein]

Albon needed the year as reservedriver at RBR to learn abt how to communicate with the team, to see how Max and Checo prepared/communicated/drove and so on. He himself said that that year he learned so much. THAT is what now at Williams gives him the results. Albon grew in that year. Had he stayed IN THE SEAT he would never had that learning curve which makes him the driver he now is. So the question can never be, should they have kept Albon in the seat! The question could be, should we try to get him back IN the seat now he’s ‘matured’ in F1

[@sierralvx]

I think as crazy as it would be for Christian to welcome Alex back into the fray, I think it wouldn't be a good fit for him. There's more than the team's outfit to consider. It's the team's personality. The vibes at Williams are so opposite to Red Bull. RBR is relentless with high expectations and has a "P1 or nothing attitude', meanwhile WR is much more patient, has a measured approach and knows that getting some points is good enough. With Alex's chill personality and unique approach to race analysis, he matches the culture at Williams so much more. I think that's why he's been able to do so much better at WR and and with how much Vowlsey is improving the car and the team, they could be fighting for race wins yet again. WAlex WAlbon.

[@j3rryacinonyx]

There is a reason Red Bull sponsored Alex in his first Williams year. They had basically 3 junior drivers last year. Alex work behind the scenes at Red Bull and helping Perez get to grips with the car is the reason Red Bull helped Alex find a seat. I believe without Red Bulls help Alex would not have found another seat last year. So they are on really good terms and i think its like Alex is a good friend of RB so they are cheering for him without them sponsoring him. So Alex reserve driver and how he handled it is the reason he found new sponsors with RB ties. Since they knew what he has done at Red Bull that year what other maybe didnt see.

[@kevalshah275]

WALEX WALBON. Amazing video... I feel like Alex needs to take a decision now... either RedBull or something else. His race pace race after race is increasing week in week out. Honestly, Albon Stroll for 2025 would be a surprise team at aston that is if aston can develop a super car for that season.

[@aidanparish6658]

That transition to the squarespace ad was clean👌

[@MalloryMinerva]

If I was Red Bull, I actually would percieve Albon as being the best option as a Checo replacement. He already has experience in the team, the bridge isn't really burned like it is with Sainz or Gasly, he's entering his prime, and he's all around less risky than a rookie, or Ricciardo or Tsunoda. If they fail to keep Albon in their camp, that is certainly a failure to optimize their driver options. With that said, I'm happy to see Albon helping Williams make progress. He's maturing into a team leader, in addition to becoming a very capable driver. As a fan of both Albon and Williams, it's one of the happier things this season for me.

[@jacobmain5589]

Honestly think that if Alex won the Austrian race in 2020 he would still be in Red Bull, his confidence would have been so high

[@Thanekay]

2020 car was so bad and 2021 was too good it made Checo looked much better than he is and Albon way worse than he is. I’m sure Albon could have matched the result.

[@nascarstopmotionandmore4266]

The gunna beat got me moving bro 🔥

[@seph9980]

that transition to squarespace plug.. lovely.

[@thomaslucock8066]

I feel like when RB put Alex in the car... quite honestly I think it was too soon. He was doing decently enough at Toro Rosso with in 2019. I just think being that inexperienced and thrown into that car, with Max as a teammate, and being ordered to immediately jump to his level knocked his confidence (not to mention that the RB16 was a bit of a handful. Fast, but a handful). Now he's back in Williams, very little pressure on his shoulders, he's shining, and hopefully better drives come for him in the future (although with how De Vries is doing and in that car... would the AT seat be an upgrade?)

[@rachelkoiks]

Yep. Everyone’s forgot because no one mentions how Walex WOWbon was promoted to Red Bull, in the middle of his *ROOKIE* season. Not everyone is Max Verstappen. But even *he* had his entire first season + first 4 races of the next, to adapt to the hectic & overwhelming F1 demands both on track and off, media, and familiarize/develop in the car. So Alex was always at a disadvantage there which is why Red Bull probably recognized that and tried their best to make up for it.

[@Duval-In-The-Wall]

He was thrown in the deep end after 11 races because of Gasly/RBs incompetence. He wasn’t even going to be IN F1 in the off season of 2018

[@mathijsvanwaard5151]

Worked the squarespace ad in nicely

[@16BitJay]

I don't think it is regret, I think it is more that he just likes Alex as a person and has a good relationship with him so is pleased he is doing well.

[@pedrosilvaproductions]

Big props for the GT2 soundtrack in the background at the begining

[@undergroundbuzz]

Alex is better off in another team as a first driver than being under the shadow of max. There’s no pressure in Williams. If he does good he’s praised if he does bad no hard feelings. If you do bad in a Red Bull you’re going to have a bunch of British f1 creators with titles saying “Should Alex be dropped?” Which is what happened in 2020.

[@thomassf3]

Walex Walbon: Suffering from success

[@andrewjmalo]

Flawless transition into the sponsor segment, mate. 😂

[@PresidentScrooge]

I hate this argument of "Latifi was more uncomfortable in the new regulations" when comparing Albon and Russell. So what? In return Russell had the advantage of being in F1 for a year before Latifi became his teammate. That certainly evens things out. I also did the numbers: Methodology: - I compared all Qualifying results with each other. - If one driver got out an earlier round, I used the latest round both drivers drove together. Else track progression would provide too big an advantage. - In contrast I compared qualifying position for the entire qualifying as progressing further shouldn't be punished for such a comparision. - Furthermore I compared race results only when both drivers finished. Russell vs Latifi in 2020: Qualifying Average Pace: 0.513 advantage for Russell Average Position: 3.5 positions advantage for Russell Note: - Sakhir naturally doesn't count as Russell was standing in for Mercedes. - Additionally I didn't add the turkish time advantage of Russell, because the 24 seconds difference would mess up the usefulness of having an average pace difference. Qualifying Results: 16 - 0 for Russell (100% Winrate 'duh) Race Results: 8 - 2 for Russell (80% Winrate) Russell vs Latifi in 2021: Qualifying Average Pace: 0.438 advantage for Russell Average Position: 3.8 positions advantage for Russell Note: - I left out the Russian GP time comparision as Latifi failed to make a qualifying time with both drivers in Q2. If I compared Q1 times, it would be in Latifis favour. I did keep the grid difference, though. Qualifying Results: 20 - 2 for Russell (90.91% Winrate) Race Results: 14 - 3 for Russell (82.35% Winrate) Albon vs Latifi in 2022: Qualifying Average Pace: 0.540 advantage for Albon -> Up from 0.519 during the summer break Average Position: 3.15 positions advantage for Albon -> Up from 2.42 during the summer break Note: - Due to the fuel penalty of Albon at the Australian GP, I had to remove the GP from the comparision. Albon was 1.237 seconds faster, though. - I also had to remove Imola as Albon didn't set a time there. I kept Latifis grid advantage for Imola like I did with Russell in 2021. - I took out Monza from the comparision. - Latifi only outperformed Albon before the summer break. Afterwards Albon completely slapped him. Qualifying Results: 18 - 2 (90% Winrate) Race Results: 14 - 1 for Albon (93.33% Winrate)

[@gidifihrer3966]

Checo, Alex, and valtteri show how hard it is to speed through the pack even in the fastest car as Lewis and Max do.

[@Mebsuta]

To just answer the question, no I don't think they regret it. The Red Bull academy is the largest of them all, so why not also regret dropping Sainz who has been more consistent this year than Leclerc, or letting Vettel go to Ferrari, letting Riccardo "grab poor habits at McLaren" etc?

[@AnimaDweller]

I do think Redbull do have a lot of care for Albon. It's different from Gasly's experience. They kinda knew Gasly maybe had hit his ceiling or at least was close to it. But they also knew that Albon had a lot more to offer and he honwstly had some tough luck. I think Horner and everyone else at Redbull do honestly feel proud seeing how much evolved.

[@jedigamer4693]

Correct me if I’m wrong but doesn’t Walex still have the Red Bull logo on his helmet? Who’s to say he might not come back into the mix in the future

[@sheldoniusRex]

Pierre did give Alfa Tauri their last win.

[@amnsbharath]

Albon had his fair share of chances at redbull.he failed miserably

[@davesiddons8921]

I think every proper fan of the sport is a fan of Alex, he’s been doing great in the Williams

[@samturpie1756]

Genuinely though I think Alex moving to Aston Martin in a few years would be great. I don’t think Fernando will be in F1 by 2026 (we never know though, he is Nando after all) and by that time I hope Williams will be somewhat competitive and then Alex can ‘see it out’ like you said. He’ll have a few extra years of experience which I imagine will go a long way. And his current Mercedes links from Williams and his past links with Honda from Red Bull would not hurt his chances either

[@Lord_Avalanche]

They won’t regret it, if RB calls up Albon he’s there on the double.

[@Lord_Avalanche]

Albon is hoping his performance at Williams will be enough to one day get back into that RB seat.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

I don't think I could take it

[@einezcrespo2107]

@@Lord_Avalanche Albon has cut ties with Red Bull. No RB logos on his helmet. I don't know if he wants to be partnered with Verstappen again when he's flourishing in a different team that may suit him better.

[@anony_mous8681]

That Squarespace transition was disgustingly clean

[@Murph___]

Do you think Alex would consider a move to AlphaTauri to replace De Vries next year, in an attempt to replace Perez in a couple of seasons? Unlikely that Williams will make a big jump in the coming seasons. Could be a big risk but Red Bull already really like him

[@JamesBoxxy]

Love to see Albon in the another team in a few years! Although Williams is absolutely an option depending on performance levels, I could envisage Alex in the 2nd Merc seat, Aston once Fernando retires aged 50 or something, maybe at Audi alongside Zhou after Valtteri retires to continue showing his butt to the world, etc! 👌

[@MoriaMariana]

Even though Yuki did not great in 2021 I think his connection to Honda and Japan were huge factors in not swapping him out...Walex Walbon!

[@Duval-In-The-Wall]

Yuki hasn’t done “great” until the start of this season tbh. And honestly De Vries is a horrible horrible bar, he looks completely out of his depth

[@DigitalPoxel]

Walex Walbon for life! I love seeing Albon content from the 1# Albon fan

[@y_fam_goeglyd]

It's been clear that the relationship between Alex and RB is great and has remained so. After his much better second half of his first season there than Gasly, his performance the next year was awful. Rather than let him dig himself into a permanent slump, that year out of F1 appears to have done him the world of good. They kept him on the payroll and obviously helped him understand how important his sim work was (his was the first scream of joy on the radio when Max won - it still makes me laugh!), and kept him race sharp via DTM. They also were kind enough to let him go to Williams, knowing they didn't have a seat in either team at that time. This was also a smart move on both parts because it's helped him become a team leader and has undoubtedly helped him with car development - something he appeared to be missing in his full year at RB. With the right guidance from him, they could have - within both the rules and the flexibility of the car's set-up tolerances - tweaked his car to be as near perfect for him as was possible to be. He's not Max, and I am not saying that in some "Max is better than Alex" childish comment. I just mean his driving style isn't ever going to be the same as any teammate (at least it's highly unlikely). By being so involved in setting up even more of the car at Williams, and to his personal liking, which I'm positive is happening, should RB (who are still up front about how much they love the little guy ;)) have a spare seat suitable for him in the next couple of years, if he wants that seat is likely to be his. He'll be in a much, _much_ more experienced part of his career and will be able to speak out and tell them not only that something is wrong, but _what_ it is. They better not wait too long, though. He's already attached to Williams and I think they're on the up!

[@doghat1619]

The "albon screamed on the radio when max won" thing was debunked literally days after it happened mate. That was GP's voice.

[@kaenguru0643]

Off topic. Where is that shirt from?

[@ooldmka]

I love Walex Walbono at Williams.

[@BlazeDrive52]

Alex is a really good driver as we all saw his mega stint in Canada. His redbull performance can be narrowed down to a simple fact that he was just your stereotypical rookie, but that does not mean he was a bad driver. Even in Toro Rosso he drove like a gem and coming into redbull, obviously was too soon for him. If he had driven for TR/AT for another year or two, he would have been ready for the move. Even still, he came close to P2 in Brazil, until Lewis took him out, which, even as a Lewis fan, angered me. Alex has become mature over his driving style and it shows in his performance in recent times. If he continues this stint he can help make Williams a dominant mid-field runner, or else a move into other teams would be beneficial for him, as he shows that he deserves it. As long as he is on the grid, I am happy. #AA23🇹🇭

[@raywei8472]

With that Horner's comment, it's safe to say he is actively evaluating Albon as a driver

[@Moray2023]

If albon and Gasly were in the 2021 AT they'd of got 5th in the championship with a gap.

[@epicgamerchannel6230]

5th? Really? Ahead of mclaren?

[@Moray2023]

@@epicgamerchannel6230 2021 I meant, not 22.

[@jamessampson7835]

I'd argue that Sergios season has been better than alex, at no point did alex ever show (admittedly time ago) he was on pace with max, but when Checo won in Baku, that was purely on pace. Alex has had a wonderful start to the season, and that P7 is akin to a race win as you said. But I think Checo has lost the momentum compared to Max and Alex has also improved momentum, building his year.

[@doghat1619]

Sergio has had 2 and a half seasons, Alex only had 1 and a half seasons. Sergio has 13 years of experience, Alex had 2 years of experience. Sergio has actually gotten further and further away from Max as the year goes on, we're talking about the guy who has failed to make Q3 for three races in a row, despite driving a rocketship. It just seems unfair to compare the two without noting down that Perez has over 5x the experience that Alex had, Perez also has more time with Red Bull, and has gotten to drive 3 incredibly fast and stable cars, whilst Alex got 2 midfield and hard to drive cars.

[@dualshockl2861]

Nice video you put a lot of hard work on them.

[@TommoMcCluskey]

Cheers, I appreciate that.

[@pancon5]

WALEX WALBON, I felt mysteriously compelled to write this. 6:10 ooof, the Viking King spittin' fire 🔥 (and straight facts 📠).

[@salim_abid_]

Yh I don’t think Redbull regret letting him go, Sure in hindsight they might think “I guess we could have kept him with us (RB or AT) but it’s not something that’s keeping them awake at night. From Albons side of things I think he is in a fantastic place right now and sure if he was in an RB he most probably would have a few race wins to his name and a higher driver profile but the Williams seat fits him (no not because it’s custom made for him to sit in) but because the role he inherited frim George and how he pushes to get the best out of a weekend and has this incredible positive outlook on race results, Ofcourse every driver wants to be fighting at the front and winning races but not every driver can drive a backmarker car with the attitude that Alex has, And push the team forward. I’m sure he will have a new teammate in 2024 but it’s highly possible looking at the development of teams right now that Williams end the season 7th fastest. AT, Alfa Romeo and maybe Haas behind them. I love where they are as a team right now and how Alex is performing.

[@robertmallinder1502]

Thoroughly enjoyed this video. Quality individuals ( regardless of the outcome) always receive kind words, and rightly so. I think admiration rather than regret. I sincerly hope the current two drivers stay at Williams, as they seem to be quality gentlemen who have me watching their progress.

[@kimi18_]

@tommo wait wait are the GT7 soundtracks royality free??

[@derfetch]

i just started the video and havent seen the clip from horner. its good to hear him talk that way about alex. what he said here, and during the 21 season when he talked about alex' work in the sim, gives alex the respect he deserves. overall i disklike horner but this was great to hear.

[@noduj]

I hope Williams one day is back at the top, such a legendary team and i have a really good feeling with Vowles.

[@Scottie_S]

Tommo....Alex is getting that elephant across the line with points. I feel that you're making up stories for content when you start with ancient history. (Maybe not ancient, but...well...history)

[@jdek3913]

A video praising Walex Walbon from Tommo?? No waaayyy :0 Jokes aside I do think that if Albon continuea to grow and gain experience he can really be a strong force in the sport

[@ashleylong123456]

I think Alex is a very good midfield runner; however, he won't be a number 1 driver at a top team. He lost to Charles in F3 and F2, and then he got beat by a rookie Russell and Norris in F2.

[@ashleylong123456]

Also, Nyck De Vries was a false prodigy; he got destroyed by Charles and George, both as rookies in F2, and won a very weak 2019 F2 season (Latifi was second, enough said...) FE isn't a great barometer for F1 results; it's mostly full of struggling, failed F1 drivers.

[@mo300z3]

Tommo Loves an opportunity to talk about Alex . And so do we

[@johnjones928]

The Yuki for Honda deal kept Albon out of the AT, that and the fact Tost rated Gastly higher than Alex. But it's not like he's completely lost the Red Bull or any other team, his biggest problem right now is he doesn't have a competitive team mate to accurately measure his performance against.

[@brendanvandenclarke4894]

I really appreciate your viewpoints on F1, Tommo. I feel like I learn something every video. WALEX WALBON

[@ucube33]

I think people are overhyping Yuki, I doubt any team would like to sign him if AT wants to try someone new. He is still immature and hsi fire isnt burning enough for F1 for something bigger. Albon on the other hand has the potential to join a better team, he is professional and has unlike Yuki, a really strong work ethic

[@MM-xv9oq]

Albon is just such an underrated driver, it would be nice one day for him to be on a podium in a Williams. Or for him to move to mid field team.

[@alcoyne3333333333333]

Underrated you must not watch British media