George Russell is ready to put his past differences with Max Verstappen behind him as he turns his attention to the 2025 Formula 1 season with Mercedes.
The contentious relationship between the two drivers reached a boiling point after an impeding incident in Qatar, which cost Verstappen pole position.
The Dutchman publicly criticized Russell’s conduct in the stewards' hearing, claiming the Briton had done everything possible – and even lied – to ensure he was penalized.
But Russell hit back with a vengeance, exposing a dark side to the championship winner, accusing Verstappen of “bullying tactics” and a pattern of reckless behavior whenever things don’t go his way.
Moving Past the Drama
“I haven’t spoken [to him], but I have no concerns about him or his driving or anything,” Russell told the media on Tuesday at the sport’s F1 75 season launch event.
Reflecting on the feud, Russell admitted that the animosity had crossed a line but made it clear he’s ready to move on and focus on winning rather than on old rivalries.
“That happened last year and I want to focus on myself,” Russell said.
“Obviously things I felt got out of line at the end of last year and I made it pretty clear that I’m not going to take it.”
Queried on the topic shortly after Russell's comments, Verstappen offered a rather laconic response.
"Honestly, I have no intention to continue any kind of beef in February," he said.
"I'm still enjoying my time away from Formula 1 and just getting ready for the season, so I have honestly nothing to say about that subject."
A Relentless Approach
Russell emphasized that his approach to racing Verstappen – or any other driver – remains unchanged.
Entering his seventh season in Formula 1, the Briton is determined to fight at the front and push Mercedes back into championship contention.
“Now it’s 2025 and I’m focused on the job and the job is to win,” Russell added.
“So I’m not going to change my approach, fighting him, fighting any other drivers. The goal is the same and I guess we’ll see when we get to Melbourne.”
George Russell and Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli
For Russell, Melbourne marks a fresh start, an opportunity to channel his energy into reclaiming glory for Mercedes.
While Verstappen remains a formidable rival, Russell is focused on what he can control – delivering results on track and striving for victory.
As the season opener looms, Russell’s ability to navigate the fine line between fierce competition and professionalism will be pivotal.
With Verstappen also aiming to defend his crown, the battles ahead promise to be intense – but this time, the Mercedes driver is steering clear of the distractions.
The message is clear: 2025 is about racing, not rivalries.
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