Ex-Formula 1 racer deems De Vries hype as a 'DISRESPECT' to competitor

 

Jan Lammers has voiced his opinion on the 'unwarranted' excitement surrounding Nyck de Vries, asserting that this disproportionate promotion of de Vries' reputation undermined the recognition of his colleague Yuki Tsunoda.

A former Dutch Formula 1 driver, Jan Lammers, was actively involved in racing between 1979 and 1982, with a brief comeback in 1992. He was linked with various teams, including Shadow, ATS, Ensign, Theodore, and March.

Lately, Lammers has delved into the subject of his fellow countryman Nyck de Vries and the considerable excitement surrounding his entry into Formula 1, bolstered by his championships in Formula 2 and Formula E.

"I must admit that they perhaps overly built up his [Nyck's] image initially," he remarked. "I personally found this to be somewhat disrespectful to Yuki. Given Yuki's performance in comparison to Gasly—since Gasly is also exceptionally consistent—if Yuki was able to present a challenge, then I wouldn't anticipate Nyck immediately outshining him."

Regrettably non-appearance of de Vries during the Dutch Grand Prix.

Lammers shared his perspective when questioned about Alpha Tauri's untimely decision to switch from Nyck de Vries to Daniel Ricciardo, leading to the absence of a second Dutch driver at the starting grid for the Dutch Grand Prix.

"I don't hold sentimental feelings about such matters, you see? I adhere to old-school principles - when you step into the arena and take up the challenge, you must be prepared. You might emerge with a bruised ego and a black eye if you lose."

The Dutch racer proceeded to critique the rationale behind Nyck's selection.

"I believe whoever made that choice should also introspect - they got carried away by that remarkable performance in Monza. While that qualifying was a commendable outcome for a Williams car, it's clear that Albon himself was confident he could have secured a front-row spot."

According to Lammers, this underscores the perception that excessive hype surrounded the Dutch driver, resulting in potentially unrealistic or unattainable performance expectations.

Nevertheless, Lammers considered de Vries' removal from the team both expected and justified.

"I've often said: a forward in football must score, a goalkeeper just needs to stop goals; if they don't, they end up on the bench."

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