F1 pundits, knowledgeable or not?

[Tazar]

On every topic in F1 there are opinions being broadcast by ex F1 drivers we’d forgotten about, ex World Champions, media presenters and Eddie Jordan.
I’m amused by some of them who raced for teams such as Pacific or Minardi many years ago who speak as if they are constantly on the phone to current drivers.
Many have opinions as to where Carlos is now going or whether Sebastian is coming back but do they know more than the average enthusiasts?
What do you think and who should we not take notice of?

[Tazar]

Sometimes it’s Ralf Schumacher and today it’s Christian Danner saying Fred chose Lewis Hamilton too soon when Carlos is driving so well.

[asfault]

If they raced regardless of level at f1 they understand the physics, or mentality or belief or whatever they are commenting on. if they finished 9th in the clio cup championship of northern italy then im less concerned/respectful about their opinion.

[richhead]

As usual with these things, it depends.
Alot of racing drivers know alot of other racing drivers, they have likely grown up racing against alot of them.
They understand the world of racing better than a layman.
It is a very small world is racing.

[Derek Smith]

All pundits are not doing it for their health. They want hits and views. If they merely stated what they had confirmed, it would be old news. If they post things they are fairly certain of and they turn out to be correct, we'll remember it. The ones that were slightly askew they can blame by saying, 'He spread some false stories. Had me fooled at times' or some such.

The ones I like are those who say they have heard [rumour] confirmed by a source who is often in the know, and they are, more or less, signaling that you believe it at your own risk.

[Tazar]

I like listening to or reading comments from drivers, past and present, about circuits or driving styles or race etiquette. People such as Billy monger know what they are talking about even though F3 was his limit due to his unfortunate accident. Even after that he was still a race winner at Pau so I take him seriously. Drivers who have come through the various single seater formulas have obviously talent beyond normal mortals.
Televised F1 has lots of educated views and I appreciate that. I know that Channel 4 is criticised for being Red Bull orientated but Coultard, Webber, monger, Chadwick can seriously talk to Team Principals and drivers and be taken seriously by them.