But look at the young footballers: Talent there in spades, but often making the wrong decision at the wrong time because they don't have the experience yet. If it was purely a matter of talent and fitness, they'd be miles ahead of the older guys but that's not the case. Every now and then you get a superstar who breaks the mold (Lewis, Rooney, Woods) but for the most part it takes a bit of time to understand what's going on around you. They may look amazing running at lower levels with fellow kids, but put them in a more even playing field against wily old sods like Alonso and they're going to get caught out.
What happens if it doesn't work out for him? In three years time he could get the boot, and then at age 20 his career could be over. After all, nobody wants a washed up F1 rookie.