F1 drivers have been known to actually pay millions to the teams for the ride. Patrick is like Montoya, probably a better open-wheel driver than Cup driver. But F1 is engineering driven, not driver critical. Engineers can and do tweak the cars via electronics while the car is actually running on the track. How you finish often depends on where you start in qualifying and the car. A great driver cannot take a middling F1 car and go to the front like a Cup driver can (Kurt Busch).
You know nothing of F1.
JPM was a HORRIBLE F1 driver and quit mid season. It’s unheard of. Of course he was driving very poorly and took out his teammate just past the tunnel in Monaco. Ran away with his tail between his legs.
“...Engineers can and do tweak the cars via electronics while the car is actually running on the track.”
It is 100% illegal to do this. They only have telemetry and can inform a driver if brake bias needs to be adjusted for longevity of brakes, for instance. The driver makes all adjustments. Complex adjustments beyond the scope of most drivers.
“...A great driver cannot take a middling F1 car and go to the front...” Again very incorrect.
Fernando Alanso (I do not care for him, BTW) has for the last several years driven his Ferrari at 110% - the Ferrari chassis has been a handful for the last few years and he has driven it beyond comprehension.
NASCAR drivers would have a very difficult time driving a F1 car - 1,200 pounds, 900 HP (the cars actually weigh about 650 pounds but have beryllium ballast to bring them to FIA minimums). They are beastly.
“F1 drivers have been known to actually pay millions to the teams for the ride.” True, but only on the little teams, and the money usually comes from the drivers mentor. The drivers are typically BAD. I sincerely doubt that Haas Racing is entering F1 so it can showcase crappy drivers.
In closing I want to emphasize my point about JPM once more - he’s a terrible F1 driver and the sport is MUCH better without him.