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Max Verstappen has been lined with a switch to Mercedes across the last 12 months – but does George Russell feel threatened by the prospect?
George Russell has stated that he does not feel any added pressure amidst speculations about Max Verstappen potentially moving to Mercedes for the 2026 season. Verstappen was previously linked to Mercedes during the previous season due to unrest at Red Bull. Despite Mercedes’ interest in Verstappen after Lewis Hamilton’s departure, the Dutch driver remained with Red Bull. Verstappen continues to be associated with Mercedes for the 2026 season, potentially replacing Russell or his new teammate, Kimi Antonelli. Russell, however, remains confident in his position at Mercedes and believes his performance speaks for itself as he steps into a leadership role following Hamilton’s departure. He asserts that he is not troubled by the rumors and is focused on giving his best on the track.
