F1 News: George Russell On Max Verstappen Mercedes Rumours - "Welcome A Challenge"
George Russell has responded to the rumours surrounding Max Verstappen possibly joining Mercedes, following the shock move of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari.
Key Takeaways:
- Speculation about Max Verstappen's move to Mercedes has intensified after Lewis Hamilton's switch to Ferrari.
- George Russell sees the potential addition of Verstappen to Mercedes as beneficial, emphasising the team's aim for the strongest lineup.
- Russell is confident in his abilities to match up with Verstappen, citing his performance alongside Hamilton as evidence.
Mercedes Press Image
The F1 community is still reeling from Lewis Hamilton's unexpected switch to Ferrari, a move that has sent shockwaves through the sport. Hot on its heels is the rumour mill churning out news of Max Verstappen potentially transferring to Mercedes. This would position him as Hamilton's successor and George Russell's new teammate. Russell, currently with Mercedes, has openly welcomed the idea, pointing to the advantage of having formidable partners in a team. He explained in the Drivers Press Conference ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix:
"I think any team wants to have the best driver lineup possible. And right now, Max is the best driver on the grid, so if any team had a chance to sign Max, they would 100% be taking it."
However, Russell also acknowledged the complexities involved in such a potential move, given the intricate dynamics at play within Red Bull Racing and the broader F1 ecosystem.
"So I think the question is more on the other side, his side, and Red Bull's side.
"Obviously, there is so much going on there. We don't know what truly is going on behind closed doors. And ultimately, it's none of our business right now.
"Yes, I guess we'll be excited."
Despite the formidable reputation of Verstappen as a competitor, Russell is unwavering in his self-belief and readiness to compete at the highest level. Drawing on his experience with Hamilton, he stated:
"As I said last week in Bahrain, this is my third season now alongside Lewis. He’s the greatest driver of all time, and I feel like I've done a pretty good job alongside him.
"So whoever was to line up alongside me next year or in the years to come, I welcome anybody, I welcome a challenge. You always want to go against the best.
"But, ultimately, for me, I just focus on myself. I believe in myself. I believe I can beat anybody on the grid. And you have just got to have that mentality. So, as I said, having Lewis as my benchmark for the last couple of years has been a pretty good benchmark for sure."