Russell ‘would welcome’ chance to defy Verstappen at Mercedes

40

George Russell has acknowledged that he could find himself at some point in the future racing alongside Max Verstappen at Mercedes, and it’s a challenge the Briton would gladly welcome.

Formula 1 is abuzz with speculation about a potential driver reshuffle, sparked by the current controversy surrounding Red Bull team boss Christian Horner.

Verstappen has found himself inadvertently embroiled in the wrangling following his father Jos’ public criticism of Horner.

This complex situation has led to speculation that Verstappen and his entourage might seek an early termination of his contract with Red Bull, which currently extends until 2028.

If such an outcome should come to pass, a move to Mercedes to fill Lewis Hamilton’s vacant seat at the end of 2024 would appear as a high probability. And that’s a prospect that excites even Russell.

Read also: Marko fully expects Mercedes to contact Verstappen

“I think any team would want to have the best driver line-up possible and right now Max is the best driver on the grid,” commented Russell.

“So if any team had a chance to sign Max, they’ll 100% be taking it.

“I think the question is more on the other side, on his side and on Red Bull’s side, obviously so much going on there, we don’t know truly what’s going on behind closed doors and ultimately it’s none of our business right now. But it would be exciting.”

Russell believes that his track record at Mercedes versus Hamilton speaks clearly to his chances of challenging Verstappen.

“This is my third season now alongside Lewis, greatest driver of all time, and I feel like I’ve done a pretty good job alongside him.

“So whoever were to line up alongside me next year or the years to come I welcome anybody, welcome a challenge. You would want to go against the best.

“But ultimately for me, just focus on myself. I believe in myself. I believe I can beat anybody on the grid. You’ve just got to have that mentality. So having Lewis as my benchmark the last couple of years, it’s been a pretty good benchmark for sure.”

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.