Russell would welcome "best driver on the grid" Verstappen at Mercedes

Russell would welcome "best driver on the grid" Verstappen at Mercedes | Formula 1

March 6, 2024

in Racing

Reading Time: 2 mins read

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George Russell would relish the chance to go up in opposition to Max Verstappen in the identical workforce.

The three-times world champion is contracted to drive for Pink Bull till 2028. Nevertheless a rift has appeared between the Verstappen camp and workforce principal Christian Horner over the workforce’s dealing with of an investigation into his conduct final week.

Verstappen’s father Jos mentioned the integrity of the workforce could be put in danger if Horner doesn’t depart. FIA workforce principal Mohammed Ben Sulayem has urged Verstappen to publicly again Horner.

This has prompted hypothesis Verstappen might search an early launch from his contract. Mercedes is searching for a alternative for Lewis Hamilton subsequent yr and the reigning champion could be an apparent goal.

Russell mentioned he would perceive the workforce searching for to rent Verstappen. “I believe any workforce wish to have one of the best driver line-up doable and proper now Max is one of the best driver on the grid,” he mentioned.

“So if any workforce had an opportunity to signal Max they’ll 100% be taking it. I believe the query is extra on the opposite aspect, on his aspect and on Pink Bull’s aspect, clearly a lot happening there, we don’t know really what’s happening behind closed doorways and in the end it’s none of our enterprise proper now. However it could be thrilling.”

He mentioned his efficiency alongside Hamilton reveals he might compete with Verstappen. “That is my third season now alongside Lewis, best driver of all time, and I really feel like I’ve performed a reasonably good job alongside him.

“So whoever have been to line up alongside me subsequent yr or the years to come back I welcome anyone, welcome a problem. You’d wish to go in opposition to one of the best.

“However in the end for me, simply give attention to myself. I imagine in myself. I imagine I can beat anyone on the grid. You’ve simply acquired to have that mentality. So having Lewis as my benchmark the final couple of years, it’s been a reasonably good benchmark for positive.”

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