19/04/2025 11:15
George Russell has offered a surprising opinion on rumours that Max
Verstappen could join Mercedes, a move he believes would be
"totally understandable". Despite being contracted to Red Bull
until the end of 2028, Verstappen's future has been a major talking
point this year due to the team's issues with the RB21. An
improvement is required by Red Bull for Verstappen to fight for a
record-equalling fifth consecutive drivers' title, with McLaren
currently having too much of a pace advantage. The reigning world
champion has been linked to both Aston Martin and Mercedes,
although it is the latter whom he could join sooner. Aston Martin
has both of its drivers under contract until the end of 2026,
whereas neither of Mercedes' drivers have a deal in place for next
season. Kimi Antonelli's future is expected to be safe as he is
seen as a long-term project for Mercedes. Russell has also been
reported to be close to agreeing a new two-year deal, with an
option for a third. The British driver has enjoyed an excellent
start to the campaign and does not fear for his future at Mercedes,
although does recognise why his outfit could want Verstappen. "Why
wouldn't they want to sign Max? It's totally understandable,"
Russell told PA . "He's the best at the moment. He's a four-time
world champion. That's not anything against me or Kimi [Antonelli].
There's two drivers for every team and he is one person. "So that
doesn't concern me one bit because the performance is my currency,
and right now I think I am performing as good as anyone on this
grid." Russell's 'immense belief' Russell has made an exceptional
start to the season and has quickly adjusted to leading Mercedes
following the exit of Lewis Hamilton. He has claimed three podiums
in the first four races and sits as a genuine outsider for the
drivers' title, giving him major confidence over his Mercedes
future. "I am very happy," said Russell. "Many drivers have
contracts but the fact is that if you don't perform, the teams will
find a way to get you out of that. When the time is right, we'll
discuss a contract. "I feel people who are too concerned about a
lack of a contract or lack of clarity are those who don't have the
self belief. I have got immense belief. "I have been team-mate with
a world champion for three years, the greatest of all time for
three years [in Hamilton]. I believe I can beat anybody given the
right chance and that is your power."
