US EditionGeorge Russell Says He Wants to Keep Max Verstappen in F1 but Would 'Understand' if He Goes
Russell said Verstappen may have little left to prove after four titles and could leave Formula 1 if the new rules do not suit him.
- On Friday, Mercedes driver George Russell said he would understand if four-time champion Max Verstappen retired, noting the Dutchman has "not really much more" to achieve in Formula 1.
- Verstappen, currently struggling in the midfield with Red Bull, has frequently criticized the 2026 regulations as "anti-racing" due to emphasis on energy management over flat-out driving.
- Russell, currently chasing his first title, suggested that if he held four championships, he might share the Dutchman's perspective, adding "you wouldn't want to lose Max" from the sport.
- Amid his Formula 1 frustrations, Verstappen is preparing for the Nurburgring 24 Hours, a challenge Russell said he would love to undertake to "do what puts a smile on his face."
- Russell noted an improved relationship between drivers and The FIA regarding potential rule adjustments, while maintaining focus on his own title campaign alongside teammate Kimi Antonelli.
32 Articles
32 Articles
Russell backs Verstappen amid F1 criticism
Championship favourite George Russell said he would understand if Max Verstappen walked away from Formula One in the sport's new era and he would not be surprised either way. Speaking to reporters via a video call on Friday, on what would have been a Saudi Grand Prix weekend but for the cancellation of April Middle Eastern races due to the Iran war, the Mercedes driver said his old rival's current frustration was "only natural". Red Bull's four…
Max Verstappen constantly threatens to resign from Formula One. Now, intimate enemy George Russell comes to the floor: Even he would find it a pity if the Red Bull star would make the bend.
Associated Press News
George Russell says he wants to keep Max Verstappen in F1 but would 'understand' if he goes
George Russell says he doesn’t want Formula 1 to “lose” Max Verstappen as the four-time champion vents his unhappiness with the new cars.
Motor racing-Russell says he would understand if Verstappen walked away from F1
LONDON, April 17 (Reuters) - Championship favourite George Russell said he would understand if Max Verstappen walked away from Formula One in the sport's new era and he would not be surprised either way.
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