Russell would 'relish' going up against Verstappen

Mercedes' George Russell has claimed that he would 'relish' the opportunity to go up against four-time World Champion, Max Verstappen, should the Dutchman switch from Red Bull to Mercedes in the near future.

Verstappen had been linked with the German manufacturer earlier this season, before re-confirming his commitment to Red Bull. Now, the four-time champion is in the championship hunt against both McLaren drivers.

Mercedes only announced both current drivers Russell and Kimi Antonelli this month, with the pair now both confirmed for the 2026 season. However, Russell has claimed that "Everything works out for the best" regarding the extensive contract negotiations.

Russell confident for 2027 Mercedes deal

Russell has clarified a few details regarding this new contract with Mercedes: "It is something I haven't actually said publicly, but the deal is, if I'm performing {next year}, we have a specific clause that if I reach {a certain target}, we will automatically renew for 2027."

"So my seat for 2027 is in my hands. So I'm not being strung along here. We're not going to be in the same position as we were six months ago. If I perform, then 100 per cent I will be staying."

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With Russell seemingly confident over a 2027 automatic renewal with the German manufacturer, and Italian driver Antonelli signed on for the 2026 season, where does this leave Verstappen?

The Dutchman will stay with Red Bull for the 2026 season, likely to see if the new Ford engine partnership can bring success for the Milton Keynes based team. Verstappen's current contract with Red Bull also brings the four-time champion until the end of the 2028 season.

Max Verstappen and George Russell in Singapore - Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Russell on relationship with Verstappen

Both Russell and Verstappen have come together numerous times over the last few years, with the pair's rivalry hitting new heights especially at the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix and 2025 Spanish Grand Prix.

"We're fine." Russell claims. "Life is short. We're all adults. We all learn from these experiences. You don't need to be best mates as team-mates."

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