George Russell Discusses Rumors of Max Verstappen Joining Mercedes

In an exclusive interview with PA ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, George Russell expressed his thoughts on the rumors linking Max Verstappen to Mercedes. With the seat seemingly unclaimed for 2026, speculation has been rife about the possibility of Verstappen joining the Silver Arrows.

Russell’s Take on the Possibility of Verstappen Joining Mercedes

When asked about the chances of Mercedes boss Toto Wolff being interested in the four-time champion, Russell was realistic. “Why wouldn’t they want to sign Max? It’s totally understandable,” he said. “He’s the best at the moment. He’s a four-time world champion. That’s not anything against me or Kimi [Antonelli]. There are two drivers for every team and he is one person.

Russell further emphasized his confidence, stating, “So that doesn’t concern me one bit. Right now, I think I am performing as good as anyone on this grid.” This statement comes from a driver who has recently stepped into the team in a leading role after Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari. Alongside Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Russell and the Silver Arrows have formed a talented duo.

James Vowles’ Comments on Verstappen Joining Mercedes

James Vowles, former Mercedes strategist-turned-Williams chief, shared his thoughts on the idea of Verstappen joining the Mercedes driver lineup. “I think there is more performance to be added through Max,” he said on the speculation surrounding the driver during the Saudi Arabian race weekend. “I don’t think anyone in the room would deny that he is extraordinary in what he can do, and Japan was, for me, jaw-dropping.

Vowles continued, “Well done to him but he comes with a lot of downsides as well that we have to acknowledge. I think what Mercedes does have is a great culture with two drivers that are delivering near to the peak of the car, and with one that’s on the way up. So I personally don’t think that’s a place for him.

Improving Mercedes’ Performance and Russell’s Future

With Mercedes currently sitting behind current leaders McLaren in the constructors’ standings with a 58-point deficit, there is certainly room to improve. But with Verstappen seemingly happy at Red Bull and Wolff content with his solid driver duo, Russell knows what he has to continue doing to retain his seat.

Despite the rumors, Russell remains focused on his performance and the potential of the Silver Arrows. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these speculations unfold and whether Verstappen will indeed join forces with Mercedes in 2026.