George Russell Reacts to Verstappen-Mercedes Rumors: “Totally Understandable”
George Russell has weighed in on the growing speculation linking Max Verstappen to Mercedes, admitting that he understands why the team would be interested in signing the reigning World Champion.
While Russell remains under contract with Mercedes through the end of 2025, questions about the team’s long-term driver lineup continue to swirl—particularly as Verstappen’s future at Red Bull grows increasingly uncertain.
In a recent interview, Russell made it clear that he wouldn’t be threatened by Verstappen’s arrival. “It’s totally understandable why Mercedes would want to sign someone like Max,” he said. “He’s a multiple-time World Champion and performing at an incredibly high level.”
Toto Wolff, Mercedes team principal, acknowledged last year that the team had explored the possibility of signing Verstappen. Although those efforts have reportedly been paused, ongoing turbulence within Red Bull—highlighted by recent comments from advisor Helmut Marko following a disappointing Bahrain Grand Prix—has reignited the conversation.
Marko expressed concern that Verstappen could walk away from the team unless competitive improvements are made, further fueling rumors that Mercedes may still be in the hunt for the Dutch driver’s signature.
For now, Russell’s position remains secure, but with contracts ending and tensions rising, the Formula 1 driver market could be in for a dramatic shake-up.
