George Russell would relish the opportunity to go up against Max Verstappen in the same team.
The three-times world champion is contracted to drive for Red Bull until 2028. However a rift has appeared between the Verstappen camp and team principal Christian Horner over the team’s handling of an investigation into his conduct last week.
Verstappen’s father Jos said the integrity of the team would be put at risk if Horner does not leave. FIA team principal Mohammed Ben Sulayem has urged Verstappen to publicly back Horner.
This has prompted speculation Verstappen could seek an early release from his contract. Mercedes is seeking a replacement for Lewis Hamilton next year and the reigning champion would be an obvious target.
Russell said he would understand the team seeking to hire Verstappen. “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.”
He said his performance alongside Hamilton shows he could compete with Verstappen. “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.
“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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