Formula 1: Verstappen as a Mercedes colleague? Russell is not averse

Mercedes driver George Russell can imagine Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen as a teammate from next season.

“Every team wants to have the best possible driver pairing,” said the 26-year-old Brit before the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. “And Max is the best driver in the field at the moment. If a team has the opportunity to get him, they will use it one hundred percent.”

Speculation about Verstappen’s early departure from Red Bull and a move to Mercedes has gained momentum in the last few days. The three-time world champion comes from the Red Bull driver team, became world champion three times with the team and has a contract until the end of 2028.

However, the escalated power struggle with team boss Christian Horner at the center raises doubts. Verstappen’s father Jos in particular fueled the tense situation in the world champion team with sharp statements after his son’s victory in Bahrain.

Toto Wolff: “Everything is possible”

“We don’t know what really happens behind closed doors,” emphasized Russell. The question of whether Verstappen could actually come to Mercedes would lie more with him and his team. “It will be exciting,” said Russell, who would have no problems if Verstappen took over Lewis Hamilton’s cockpit after this season. The seven-time world champion will drive for Ferrari from 2025.

“Everything is possible,” said Mercedes Motorsport Director Toto Wolff in Bahrain about Verstappen’s commitment. “Whoever it is, I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Russell: “You always want to compete against the best and I think I can beat anyone in the field.” Hamilton is also a pretty good indicator.