Red Bull boss Christian Horner reckons George Russell exposed Max Verstappen‘s talks with Mercedes to gain “leverage” in his Formula 1 negotiations with the team.
The speculation that Verstappen could head to Mercedes has been reignited since Russell disclosed last week that the two parties are engaged in active discussions.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has twice missed out on signing Verstappen – the most recent being 12 months ago – but he has remained convinced their paths will cross.
Wolff settled on promoting teenage sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli to partner Russell, who, like his team-mate, does not have a contract in place past this campaign.
Russell indicated that Wolff’s decision to revisit Verstappen’s situation with his entourage has put a hold on him agreeing a contract renewal with the German marque.
Horner has theorised that could have provided an ulterior motive behind Russell’s choice to go public with Mercedes’ updated dealings with the reigning F1 champion.
“Actually, probably George triggered all this speculation, probably trying to leverage his own situation and force clarity, which you can understand because he’s driven a very good season as well this year,” Horner told media including Motorsport Week at the British Grand Prix.
“But inevitably, there will always be speculation about it. I think the most important thing is the clarity that exists between Max and the team, and that’s very clear.”
Red Bull not in contact with Russell
Russell has been adamant that he harbours no concerns that Mercedes could drop him amid an impressive campaign which has comprised five podiums in 10 races.
Horner expressed surprise that Mercedes counterpart Wolff has not locked Russell down, though he dismissed that Red Bull had sought to capitalise on the situation.
“Well, it’s remarkable that George is still on the market,” he added.
“We haven’t engaged in any discussion with George. So, he’s obviously pretty confident that he’s going to get to retain where he is.”
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