Max Verstappen and Mercedes – a relationship that has, absurdly, gone from rivalry to potential partnership.
Ferrari wannabe Lewis Hamilton is preparing a surprise move for the Dutchman to partner George Russell from 2025 onwards. Moreover, early signs of Red Bull weakness in 2024 only strengthen this possibility. Russell, whose move could have a major impact on his position at the Silver Arrows if it goes through, has spoken out on the matter.
Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix earlier this year, Russell was asked about rumours that Toto Wolff would sign Verstappen for 2025. “I would welcome it,” he replied confidently, adding, “I want to compete with the best.” At the time, rumors of such a move emerged due to instability within Red Bull caused by the Christian Horner scandal.
But now that that has settled, the issue has heated up again with the RB20 no longer invincible. So it would be no surprise, at least for Russell, if the three-time champion were to eventually move to Mercedes. “I wouldn’t hesitate to jump with Max,” Russell told the Daily Mail. “And I wouldn’t hesitate for him to jump on us.” The biggest challenge for me was to compete against the best driver of all time, statistically, and Mercedes, both in qualifying and in the race.
I performed well against him and that’s all I can do.” The Briton then thought out loud and made a startling prediction that Verstappen would take a break in 2026. “Max can take a year off in 2026 and see which team is the strongest,” Russell said, adding, “I wouldn’t be surprised at all if he does that. Remember, 2026 is a lottery. So you really don’t know what’s going to happen.” As speculation continues to grow about Verstappen’s departure from Red Bull, Verstappen reiterated that he will remain “loyal” to Red Bull.
As for Mercedes, Russell believes a new dawn is dawning, despite Toto Wolff continuing to pursue the Dutchman.
George Russell believes Lewis Hamilton’s exit will ignite a “new spark” for Mercedes
Lewis Hamilton joined Mercedes in 2013, a move that was said to be risky. But six championships and 82 race wins later, those same experts are hailing him as the best decision of all time.
Now that he’s left the team, and George Russell has taken over the management of the Brackley team, he sees only good things.
“It’s a new beginning for the team,” Russell told the Daily Mail, adding: “A lot of people here have shared success with Lewis, but change often brings a new spark within everyone.
That was the case with Lewis and will be the case for us here next year.” It’s good that Lewis can leave now, instead of in 2021, which would have been difficult for the whole team.” The 26-year-old could face a nerve-testing test in 2025 after more than two years as Mercedes’ “number two” driver, but his time at the helm of Williams could make the process easier.
And if Verstappen joins him, Toto Wolff will continue to face the same fierce internal team battles as he does now.
