Quite frankly, I believe these harsh criticisms towards Maldonado are unjustified. Indeed, he made errors. Quite a few in fact, I'll be honest. Overall however, his pace was decent. Seven times during the season, he out qualified Barrichello, on merit. For a rookie, that isn't at all disappointing. Even when beaten by his team mate in qualifying, Maldonado wasn't always left wanting. On some occasions, the time difference between him and Rubens wasn't exactly what you would call substantial. Another interesting point to note is that, had Hamilton not foolishly wiped him out during the closing stages at Monaco, Maldonado could well have out scored Rubens this season. Of course, it isn't all about points, race-by-race performance is key. By observing his races this season, you'll realize that, he hasn't been anywhere near as awful as some people suggest. In truth, he's performed quite well, especially when you consider that the Williams FW33 was by far the worst car in the field to be produced by an established team. All that this widespread resentment towards Maldonado comes down too is the stereotype that pay drivers are useless. Anyone who pays for their drive is instantly regarded as unworthy. Petrov is an example, some (not you prisonermonkeys) still regard him as mediocre, because he has sponsorship. People seem to forget Abu Dhabi 2010 and Australia at the beginning of this season. On both occasions he demonstrated he could withstand pressure from a double World Champion. Not to mention he has shown that he can overtake. His team mate Bruno on the other hand, hasn't shown as much yet. As he hasn't had the same chance, he is still a relative unknown. However because of his last name, many are already assuming he is rather good. Although he too, brings sponsorship. Still, I've ranted long enough. Hopefully I haven't come across too harsh or personal. If I have done so, then I apologize.
