The aftermath of the 2024 Formula 1 season left an open war between Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion and clear dominator of the recent era, and George Russell, the Mercedes pilot. It all started in the qualifying session in Qatar, where the Dutch driver was sanctioned after an incident with the British pilot. This sparked a heated debate, with Verstappen accusing Russell of having a “mask” of doors out, and Russell replying by listing the threats of “1”. Neither pilot backed down, setting the stage for a tense rivalry.
George Russell seemed to put the past behind him, stating “It’s the past” during an interview in London. However, he also made it clear that he won’t tolerate any further incidents, saying “Things left mother and I have made it clear that I will not tolerate him anymore.” This message was loud and clear: if Verstappen, or anyone else, pushes him too far, Russell will respond. As he put it, “If Verstappen goes more, the British will answer.”
Russell and Verstappen haven’t spoken since the incident, and Russell claims he has no complaints about the Dutch driver’s driving. Nevertheless, it’s evident that Russell doesn’t want Verstappen to look for conflict and reach the same dangerous limits as those seen in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. In fact, Russell had previously accused Verstappen of intentionally trying to collide with him.
As the 2025 season approaches, Russell’s focus is clear: win. “It is what I focused on,” he said, and his attitude will continue to be the same. “I don’t change my way of being. I will fight with him (Verstappen) and other pilots. The goal is the same. So we will see who takes it in Melbourne.” Russell wants to be among the best in his first season as the lead driver at Mercedes, having spent three seasons alongside Lewis Hamilton and demonstrated his skills by beating the legend in two of those seasons.
Russell will also have to contend with the promising Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who will be driving alongside him. The Italian is backed by the Mercedes brand to take the step up at just 18 years old, joining a team that ended 2024 among the three fastest on the grid. With his sights set on victory, Russell is ready to take on the challenge and prove himself as a top driver. As he said, “I am stronger every year, although things seem different. The team is with me.”