P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Russell defends F1 after Verstappen attack
Max Verstappen expressed dissatisfaction with the new F1 cars for 2026, criticizing them as ‘anti-racing’ and ‘Formula E on steroids,’ but his rival George Russell defended the sport, emphasizing the thrill of pushing cars to their limits.
Their feud stemmed from an incident in Barcelona when Verstappen allegedly crashed into Russell, leading to rumors of manipulative behavior and bullying.
While tensions may still linger, Russell remains optimistic about the unique driving challenges presented by each era of cars, mentioning the importance of adapting to different styles and techniques.
Despite the off-season success of Mercedes’ engine, which could benefit Russell in his pursuit of a maiden world title, competition from drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc poses a threat in the 2026 F1 season.
The season kicks off in Melbourne with the Australian Grand Prix, featuring the first qualifying session on March 7 and the inaugural race on March 8, setting the stage for a highly anticipated championship battle.
