F1 Drivers That Should Look to Move By The End of 2022

Across the grid there are some drivers for whom, 2022 is a make-or-break year. According to how this one goes, here are four drivers who should be looking to change teams.

1. Yuki Tsunoda

Though his stock has fallen harder than the price of HRT merchandise, Tsunoda is and will be one of the most talented youth in the sport next year. Though his maiden drive through the calendar did not overwhelm spectators, the understanding that his development is hindered by comparisons to his teammate remains essential. Tsunoda's run to third in the championship behind Mick Schumacher and Callum Illot remains and undeniable promise of his untapped potential. 

His final six races included two podiums and a win, and if that weren't enough, he outscored eventual champion Mick Schumacher and his rival Illot. this unpredictable jolt in form earned him the praise of Helmut Marko as "the best junior in years". Ironically, Gasly would put hm in his place, but when a driver shows the ability to take control of a run of races, there's always the understanding that it can be done again. Tsunoda was streaky throughout 2021. Bahrain showed promise and points, but immediately after he struggled. Once the final four races came around he eventually began out-qualifying Gasly. Whether Tsuonda can succeed in a sport where consistency is so heavily praised is unlikely. However, there are drivers the sport wishes it could have back. Vandoorne, De Vries, etc. Tsuonda will join that list if he isn't in a different car for 2022.

2/3 Sebastian Vettel & Fernando Alonso

I'm grouping these together because of how similar their situations are. Former champions in need of one last shot at the title. As comforting as it is to beat their younger teammates, the lack of competitiveness means they run the risk of burning out before they're able to make another run at the spotlight. Without a doubt two of the top three drivers of the 2010s deserve better, and we'd all hope for a more fitting send off. 

As to where that lies, it appears as if Vettel's unlikely return to Red Bull is his best chance. Ferrari's bridges are burned, and Mercedes are able to pick from almost any driver. 2023 is going to be the last chance for Seb to return to the top step of the podium.

For Alonso, as meme-worthy as 'El Plan' turned out to be, the Spaniard's optimism seems to have dwindled. On the precipice of another lost year in F1, Alonso truly only has 1-2 more years left. According to Alpine's internal data, Alonso is still fast enough to consider himself one of the top drivers in the sport. However, he's also a very loyal driver. He's only ever driven for three teams, and when he swaps he always ends up at one of them (McLaren, Renault/Alpine, Ferrari). However, with Ricciardo's contract ending the year after 2022, it's possible that's his next target. Moreover than Vettel, Alonso seems determined to try his hand at another world championship. Only time will tell if he gets his opportunity.

3. Sergio Perez

There's little fanfare for the retired non-champions of F1, but if there ever comes a time to change that, Perez ought to be one of the first in the line. Since 2011 there has been a near perpetual amount of praise coming his way. No matter the era or team, the Mexican driver continues to wow casual and hardcore fans alike. Now that he's had his opportunity with a top-2 team it is looking as if this is likely his swan song. However, it doesn't have to be. Perez looks like a driver with incredible race-craft, and as always continues to be one of the most consistent drivers ever. Any team in the midfield benefits from a 2nd driver like Perez. Williams once Latifi departs looks to be a major candidate for his signature, or Haas if Mick Schumacher leaves for Ferrari. Either way, it'd be a shame losing him from the sport if he doesn't find another renewal for 2023.