The issue with the direction of car build suiting a driver is a misunderstood one.
Newey, or whoever, doesn't set out to build a car to suit whichever driver. As fwr as hemis concerned he simply sets out to draft the fastest steed he can within the regulations.
However, the drivers do have input, particularly when testing is required to determine a design direction of confirm the suitability of a design.
The likes of Hamilton and Verstappen were raised as racers from a young age, and while not qualified per se, each received comprehensive classroom lessons and hands-on training in race car engineering as part of their education and induction into racing. Jos the Boss arranged Max's, and Ron Dennis bankrolled Lewis' classroom training. The likes or Perez and Ricciardo have not had such formal schooling in engineering, at least to nowhere near the depth and level of Max, and Lewis in particular.
As a result they are far better engineers and give far more meaning input and feedback at the design and development stage than their rivals. That's why the cars the cars tend to suit the number 1 drivers better at MB and RB.
Of course, if Lewis is to be believed he wasn't listened to very much this time around, but in general its the better engineering training and knowledge of Max and Lewis that guides the designs their way, not some cloak and dagger Rand Corporation sponsored plot to make life difficult for the number 2 drivers we want to see do well.
