George Russell: no talks with Max Verstappen, no change in approach
Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool
In a recent interview, Mercedes' George Russell revealed that he has not spoken to Max Verstappen since their contentious end-of-season clash in Abu Dhabi last December.
Despite the fallout, Russell made it clear on Tuesday that his approach to racing will remain unchanged.
Russell and Verstappen, the four-time world champion from Red Bull, exchanged accusations last year. Verstappen claimed he had lost respect for Russell, while Russell accused the Dutchman of threatening behavior and bullying.
"I haven't spoken [with him]," said Russell, who also serves as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association. He addressed the situation during the 10-team Formula 1 season launch in London. "No concerns about him or his driving or anything. That happened last year, and I want to focus on myself," he added.
Russell is now paired with young Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, following the departure of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari. "Obviously, things I felt got out of line at the end of last year and I made it pretty clear that I'm not going to take it. But now, you know, it's 2025 and I want to focus on the job and the job is to win," Russell emphasized.
"So, you know, I'm not going to change my approach fighting him, fighting any other drivers. The goal is the same and I guess we'll see when we get going," he concluded.
Russell, who secured two race victories last year, is entering his fourth year with Mercedes and takes on the role of team leader alongside Antonelli. Meanwhile, Verstappen, who clinched his fourth consecutive title in 2024, has shown no interest in continuing the public dispute.
"Honestly, I have no intention to continue any kind of beef in February," Verstappen stated. He will be joined by new teammate Liam Lawson from New Zealand. "I'm still enjoying my time actually away from Formula 1 and just getting ready for the season. So I have honestly nothing to say about that subject," Verstappen added.
The highly anticipated Formula 1 season is set to begin in Australia on March 16.
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