George Russell Drops Shocking Max Verstappen Bombshell to Mercedes

George Russell has openly addressed the ongoing rumors about Max Verstappen potentially joining Mercedes as a teammate. Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Russell made it clear that he would have no issue sharing the garage with Verstappen.

In fact, he stated that he would be happy with that partnership, emphasizing that if he were team boss Toto Wolff, his first choices would be himself and Verstappen.

Russell’s comments come as speculation around Verstappen’s future grows stronger, with the Dutch driver repeatedly linked to a move away from Red Bull. Mercedes, who are searching for their best driver line-up after Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari, have seen their name at the center of these talks.

Russell is out of contract at the end of the year, adding fuel to discussion about Mercedes’ driver pairing for upcoming seasons.

Reflecting further, Russell said there is no disrespect in the rumors suggesting Verstappen could take a top seat anywhere in Formula 1. He acknowledged Verstappen’s standing as a four-time drivers’ champion and suggested every team would want him if all seats were available.

The British driver explained that, if given the chance, he believed Ferrari would pair Verstappen with Charles Leclerc, and McLaren would have a tough choice between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri alongside Verstappen. Leclerc, meanwhile, has recently denied Ferrari hype, maintaining focus on his performance rather than speculation.

The rivalry between Russell and Verstappen has been on display more than once in the past year, with the two drivers clashing on track at various events. Still, Russell dismissed any suggestion that he would see Verstappen’s arrival at Mercedes as a challenge or sign of disrespect.

He explained that F1 teams always look to secure the best possible line-up, and Verstappen is regarded by many as the top competitor on the current grid.

Statistically, Verstappen remains a major force in the sport. He holds four world championships and is a regular contender for race wins.

Russell, for his part, has secured three grand prix victories and has become an established figure at Mercedes since joining the team. Their combined records would make a strong case for Mercedes forming arguably the strongest pairing in Formula 1 if a deal were to happen.

As for the current F1 season, Russell sits fourth in the driver standings with 99 points, while Verstappen is third with 136. Meanwhile, Mercedes is second in the team standings with 147 points, behind McLaren, who have had a remarkable season underscored by strategic decisions and driver performances as seen in recent updates on the McLaren Lewis Hamilton Monaco race.

These numbers highlight the competitive nature of the current championship and the importance for teams to have the most effective driver line-ups possible.

Looking ahead, the 2025 F1 season could bring changes to team rosters, with many eyes on Mercedes and Red Bull to see which drivers they sign. Russell’s willingness to embrace Verstappen as a teammate signals confidence and ambition as the team looks to return to the top of the sport.

The outcome remains to be seen, but the conversation is sure to continue as the season progresses.