George Russell has labelled Max Verstappen the “best driver” on the current Formula 1 grid and would welcome the reigning World Champion at Mercedes in 2025.
Russell has been partnered with Lewis Hamilton since he was promoted to Mercedes in 2022 but the seven-time title winner has agreed a move to Ferrari next term.
Verstappen is tied with Red Bull through 2028 but there’s been friction in the ranks since an investigation into allegations against team boss Christian Horner ended.
Despite Horner being cleared of alleged inappropriate behaviour, the Dutchman’s father, Jos, commented that the Briton’s presence could threaten to wreck the team.
That has prompted speculative rumours that Verstappen could seek an exit from his Red Bull contract to pen a sensational switch to Mercedes to replace Hamilton.
Russell believes Mercedes would be open to signing Verstappen but admits that a deal would hinge on whether his relationship with Red Bull becomes untenable.
“I think any team want to have the best driver line-up possible and right now Max is the best driver on the grid,” he said.
“So if any team had a chance to sign Max they’ll 100% be taking it.
“I think the question is more on the other side, on his side and on Red Bull’s side, obviously so much going on there, we don’t know truly what’s going on behind closed doors and ultimately it’s none of our business right now. But it would be exciting.”
Russell outscored Hamilton in his debut campaign at the team and has been responsible for the German marque’s sole win under the latest ground effect regulations.
The Briton contends that his record alongside Hamilton has fuelled his belief that he could compete with Verstappen on an equal footing at Mercedes if it materialised.
“This is my third season now alongside Lewis, greatest driver of all time, and I feel like I’ve done a pretty good job alongside him,” Russell assessed.
“So whoever were to line up alongside me next year or the years to come I welcome anybody, welcome a challenge. You would want to go against the best.
“But ultimately for me, just focus on myself. I believe in myself. I believe I can beat anybody on the grid. You’ve just got to have that mentality.
“So having Lewis as my benchmark the last couple of years, it’s been a pretty good benchmark for sure.”
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