Last season, George Russell referred to Max Verstappen as a ‘bully’ and claimed that the world champion threatened to drive him into the wall during the Grand Prix of Qatar. In a press conference leading up to this season, the Brit wants to put the issue behind him and focus on his own goals.
On the eve of the season finale in Abu Dhabi, George Russell was critical of Max Verstappen’s behavior. He even called the Dutchman a bully, because Verstappen allegedly threatened to drive the Mercedes driver into the wall the week before in Qatar. The Red Bull driver, in turn, was disgusted with Russell and labeled him a backstabber. He believed that the Brit had set him up for a penalty with the stewards after the qualification, causing him to lose his pole position.
Since then, Russell has not spoken with Verstappen. “That happened last year. I said enough about it last year and made it clear that I won’t tolerate what he said,” he states.
‘I Improve Every Year’
Russell looks forward to the upcoming Formula 1 season. “It’s now 2025 and I want to focus on my own goals. And my goal is to win this year. I’m not going to change my approach and will fight with him, just as I do with all other drivers. This will be my seventh season in Formula 1 and my fourth with Mercedes, and I feel that I’m improving every year.”
Russell Anticipates Competition in 2024
Russell, who won two races in 2024, expects significant opposition. For him, it’s clear that not Red Bull, but McLaren will be the biggest challenger. “Without a doubt, McLaren is the big favorite this year. Especially when you see how strong they were in the second half of last season. In the past years, we knew after the first five rounds of the season that we wouldn’t be fighting for the top spots, at least not at the beginning of the season,” he said.
Russell’s Take on New Regulations for Non-English Speakers
Russell also comments on the new regulations regarding fines when drivers verbally cross the line. “As an individual, I already thought last year that it all went quite far. I believe that drivers should be able to show their personality. Of course, there’s no need to swear in an environment like this. But we mustn’t forget that for people for whom English is not their first language, the first thing you learn are swear words,” he explained.
